U.S. patent application number 14/529046 was filed with the patent office on 2016-05-05 for garment system including at least one sensor and at least one actuator responsive to the sensor and related methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Elwha LLC. Invention is credited to Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Max N. Mankin, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Tony S. Pan, Robert C. Petroski, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Clarence T. Tegreene, Nicholas W. Touran, Yaroslav A. Urzhumov, Lowell L. Wood, JR., Victoria Y.H. Wood.
Application Number | 20160120734 14/529046 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55851421 |
Filed Date | 2016-05-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160120734 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ishikawa; Muriel Y. ; et
al. |
May 5, 2016 |
GARMENT SYSTEM INCLUDING AT LEAST ONE SENSOR AND AT LEAST ONE
ACTUATOR RESPONSIVE TO THE SENSOR AND RELATED METHODS
Abstract
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a garment system
including at least one sensor, and at least one actuator that
operates responsive to sensing feedback from the at least one
sensor to activate a flexible compression garment to selectively
constrict or selectively dilate. Such selective constriction or
dilation against the at least one body part can improve muscle
functioning, or joint functioning during an activity such as a
sport or other athletic activity.
Inventors: |
Ishikawa; Muriel Y.;
(Livermore, CA) ; Kare; Jordin T.; (Seattle,
WA) ; Mankin; Max N.; (Cambridge, MA) ;
Myhrvold; Nathan P.; (Bellevue, WA) ; Pan; Tony
S.; (Bellevue, WA) ; Petroski; Robert C.;
(Seattle, WA) ; Sweeney; Elizabeth A.; (Seattle,
WA) ; Tegreene; Clarence T.; (Mercer Island, WA)
; Touran; Nicholas W.; (Seattle, WA) ; Urzhumov;
Yaroslav A.; (Bellevue, WA) ; Wood, JR.; Lowell
L.; (Bellevue, WA) ; Wood; Victoria Y.H.;
(Livermore, CA) ; Hyde; Roderick A.; (Redmond,
WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Elwha LLC |
Bellevue |
WA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55851421 |
Appl. No.: |
14/529046 |
Filed: |
October 30, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
601/151 ; 2/102;
2/113; 2/170; 2/171; 2/209.3; 2/300; 2/69; 2/91; 2/93; 224/259;
601/84; 63/1.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 3/04 20130101; A61B
5/1116 20130101; A61B 5/1122 20130101; A44C 9/0053 20130101; A61B
5/1118 20130101; A41D 20/00 20130101; A42B 1/242 20130101; A61B
5/6805 20130101; A41B 9/06 20130101; A41D 1/002 20130101; A41F 9/00
20130101; A41D 3/08 20130101; A41D 27/10 20130101; A61B 5/112
20130101; G06K 9/00536 20130101; A44C 5/0023 20130101; A41D 1/04
20130101; G06K 9/00342 20130101; A41D 1/02 20130101; A45D 8/36
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61H 9/00 20060101
A61H009/00; A41D 27/10 20060101 A41D027/10; A41D 3/08 20060101
A41D003/08; A41D 1/04 20060101 A41D001/04; A41D 1/02 20060101
A41D001/02; A41B 9/06 20060101 A41B009/06; A42B 1/00 20060101
A42B001/00; A41F 9/00 20060101 A41F009/00; A45D 8/36 20060101
A45D008/36; A61H 1/00 20060101 A61H001/00; A44C 5/00 20060101
A44C005/00; A44C 15/00 20060101 A44C015/00; A44C 9/00 20060101
A44C009/00; A45F 3/04 20060101 A45F003/04; A41D 20/00 20060101
A41D020/00 |
Claims
1. A garment system, comprising: at least one flexible compression
garment configured to be worn on at least one body part of a
subject, the at least one flexible compression garment defining an
interior space configured to receive the at least one body part; a
wearable device separate from the at least one flexible compression
garment and configured to be worn on an additional body part of the
subject, the wearable device including one or more sensors
configured to sense at least one characteristic associated with
movement or at least one physiological characteristic of the
subject, the one or more sensors further configured to output one
or more sensing signals indicative of the at least one
characteristic; one or more actuators positioned relative to the at
least one flexible compression garment and configured to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate the at least one
flexible compression garment; and a control system operably coupled
to the one or more actuators and further operably coupled to the
one or more sensors to receive the one or more sensing signals
therefrom, the control system including control electrical
circuitry configured to direct the one or more actuators to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate the at least one
flexible compression garment during movement of the subject
responsive to the one or more sensing signals from the one or more
sensors.
2. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the wearable device
includes a watch, a bracelet, an armband, a wristband, a strap, a
wrap, a limb sleeve, a joint sleeve, an anklet, a vest, a shirt, an
undershirt, a jacket, a hat, a headband, a backpack, a ring, or a
belt.
3. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the wearable device is
configured to be worn on a separate body part than the at least one
body part on which the at least one flexible compression garment is
configured to be worn.
4. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the additional body part
is a separate body part than that of the at least one body
part.
5. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the wearable device is
separate from the at least one flexible compression garment.
6. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the wearable device is
configured to be removably worn on one or more additional body
parts.
7. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors
are configured to detect one or more of a change in direction of
travel of the subject, a load applied to the one or more sensors by
a body part of the subject, pressure applied to the one or more
sensors by a body part of the subject, tension applied to the one
or more sensors by a body part of the subject, a load on a body
part of the subject, tension on a body part of the subject,
pressure on a body part of the subject, temperature of a body part
of the subject, pulse in a body part of the subject, velocity of a
body part of the subject, acceleration of a body part of the
subject, location of the subject, gait of the subject, or pace at
which the subject moves.
8. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors
include one or more of an accelerometer, a pedometer, a counter, a
tension sensor, a pressure sensor, a time keeper, a pulse sensor, a
chemical sensor, an oximeter, or a temperature sensor.
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. (canceled)
12. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the wearable device
includes an interior surface that the additional body part contacts
during use, and wherein the one or more sensors are disposed at
least partially on the interior surface.
13. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the one or more
actuators include at least one of one or more electroactive polymer
actuators, one or more electroactive metallic actuators, one or
more thermally active polymer actuators, one or more motors, or one
or more hydraulic actuators.
14. (canceled)
15. The garment system of claim 13, wherein the one or more
electroactive metallic actuators include one or more actuator
elements at least partially formed from a shape memory
material.
16. (canceled)
17. The garment system of claim 13, wherein the one or more one or
more motors include one or more micro-electro-mechanical
motors.
18. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the one or more
actuators include a gear system configured to tighten or loosen the
at least one flexible compression garment on the at least one body
part of the subject.
19. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the one or more
actuators include a compressed gas system configured to provide
inflow of compressed gas into or outflow the compressed gas from at
least a portion of the at least one flexible compression
garment.
20. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the one or more
actuators extend circumferentially along the at least one flexible
compression garment, and are positioned and configured to increase
or decrease the interior space of the at least one flexible
compression garment responsive to actuation thereof.
21. (canceled)
22. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the one or more
actuators includes a substantially tubular actuator.
23. (canceled)
24. (canceled)
25. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control system
includes: a power supply operably coupled to at least one of the
one or more actuators or the control electrical circuitry.
26. The garment system of claim 25, wherein the control electrical
circuitry of the control system is configured to direct the power
supply to alter an actuation stimulus to the one or more actuators
responsive to the one or more sensing signals from the one or more
sensors.
27. (canceled)
28. (canceled)
29. (canceled)
30. (canceled)
31. (canceled)
32. (canceled)
33. The system of claim 25, wherein the power supply is
re-chargable and the wearable device includes a charging port
operably coupled to the power supply.
34. The method of claim 25, wherein the power supply is housed
separately from one or more of the control electrical circuitry,
the wearable device, or the one or more sensors.
35. (canceled)
36. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control electrical
circuitry of the control system is configured to direct the one or
more actuators to apply a gradient of constriction or dilation
responsive to the one or more sensing signals from the one or more
sensors.
37. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control electrical
circuitry of the control system is configured to direct the one or
more actuators to apply constriction or dilation pulses responsive
to the one or more sensing signals from the one or more
sensors.
38. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry of
the control system is configured to direct the one or more
actuators to selectively constrict or selectively dilate the at
least one flexible compression garment substantially in cycle with
the at least one characteristic sensed by the one or more
sensors.
39. The garment system of claim 38, wherein the at least one
characteristic includes at least one of pulse in a body part of the
subject, heartbeat of the subject, or gait of the subject.
40. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control system
includes memory configured to store one or more of sensing data
corresponding to the one or more sensing signals, a threshold level
of the at least one characteristic, or actuation data corresponding
to the selective constriction or the selective dilation of the at
least one flexible compression garment.
41. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control electrical
circuitry of the control system is configured to direct the one or
more actuators to selectively constrict or selectively dilate the
at least one flexible compression garment responsive to the one or
more sensing signals from the one or more sensors being indicative
of the at least one characteristic being below or above a threshold
level.
42. The garment system of claim 41, wherein the threshold level
includes at least one of an acceleration threshold level of the
subject, a pulse threshold level of the subject, a time threshold
level, an oxygen threshold level of the subject, a chemical
threshold level of the subject, a physiological threshold level of
the subject, a travel distance threshold level, or a temperature
threshold level of the subject.
43. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control electrical
circuitry of the control system is configured to direct the one or
more actuators to selectively constrict or selectively dilate the
at least one flexible compression garment responsive to the one or
more sensing signals from the one or more sensors being indicative
of the subject being injured.
44. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control electrical
circuitry of the control system is configured to direct the one or
more actuators to selectively constrict or selectively dilate the
at least one flexible compression garment responsive to the one or
more sensing signals from the one or more sensors being indicative
of the at least one body part being exerted.
45. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control system
includes a user interface through which the control system can be
programmed with at least one operational program that controls the
amount of selective constriction or selective dilation applied by
the one or more actuators.
46. The garment system of claim 1, wherein the control electrical
circuitry is removably disposed on or in the wearable device.
47. The garment system of claim 43, wherein the control electrical
circuitry is configured to interface with a computing device.
48. The garment system of claim 1, at least one of the one or more
sensors is removably disposed on or in the wearable device.
49. The garment system of claim 48, wherein the one or more sensors
are modular and configured to be removed or replaced with
additional sensors.
50. The garment system of claim 46, wherein at least one of the
control electrical circuitry or the one or more sensors are modular
and configured to directly interface with a computing device.
51. The system of claim 47, wherein the at least one of the control
electrical circuitry or the one or more sensors are further
configured to upload or download one or more of at least one
operational program, threshold level, or sensing data to or from
the computing device.
52. The garment system of claim 51, wherein the at least one
operational program is related to at least one selected
activity.
53. (canceled)
54. (canceled)
55. (canceled)
56. (canceled)
57. (canceled)
58. A method, comprising: wearing at least one flexible compression
garment of a garment system on at least one body part of a subject,
the at least one flexible compression garment including one or more
actuators configured to selectively constrict or selectively
dilate; wearing a wearable device on an additional body part of the
subject, the wearable device separate from the at least one
flexible compression garment and including one or more sensors
configured to sense one or more of at least one characteristic
associated with movement or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject during movement; with the one or more
sensors, sensing the at least one characteristic; and responsive to
sensing the at least one characteristic via the one or more
sensors, actuating the one or more actuators to selectively
constrict or selectively dilate the at least one flexible
compression garment during movement of the subject.
59. (canceled)
60. (canceled)
61. The method of claim 58, further including storing, in memory,
one or more of at least one operational program, sensing data from
the one or more sensors, a threshold level of the at least one
characteristic, or actuation data corresponding to the selective
constriction or selective dilation.
62. The method of claim 61, wherein the garment system includes a
control system including control electrical circuitry operably
coupled to the memory, the method further including programming the
at least one operational program into the control system.
63. The method of claim 58, wherein actuating the one or more
actuators is responsive to the at least one characteristic sensed
by one or more sensors being indicative of the subject being
injured.
64. The method of claim 58, wherein actuating the one or more
actuators is responsive to the at least one characteristic sensed
by one or more sensors being over or below a threshold level.
65. The method of claim 64, wherein the threshold level includes at
least one of an acceleration threshold level of the subject, a
threshold level of load applied to the one or more sensors by a
body part of the subject, a threshold level of pressure applied to
the one or more sensors by a body part of the subject, a threshold
level of tension applied to the one or more sensors by a body part
of the subject, a pulse threshold level of the subject, a time
threshold level, an oxygen threshold level of the subject, a
chemical threshold level of the subject, a physiological threshold
level of the subject, a travel distance threshold level, or a
temperature threshold level of the subject.
66. The method of claim 58, wherein actuating the one or more
actuators is responsive to the at least one characteristic sensed
by one or more sensors being indicative of the at least one body
part being exerted or strained past a strain limit.
67. The method of claim 58, wherein actuating the one or more
actuators occurs according to at least one pre-programmed
operational program.
68. The method of claim 67, wherein the at least one pre-programmed
operational program is related to at least one selected
activity.
69. (canceled)
70. (canceled)
71. The method of claim 58, wherein wearing a wearable device on an
additional body part of the subject includes wearing the wearable
device on a different body part of the subject than the at least
one body part of the subject on which the at least one flexible
compression garment is worn.
72. (canceled)
73. (canceled)
74. The method of claim 58, wherein actuating the one or more
actuators occurs substantially in cycle with the at least one
characteristic sensed by the one or more sensors.
75. The method of claim 74, wherein the at least one characteristic
includes at least one of pulse in a body part of the subject,
heartbeat of the subject, or gait of the subject.
76. The method of claim 58, wherein the garment system includes a
user interface configured to allow a user to input sensing data
from the one or more sensors into memory of a computing device and
associate the sensing data with an activity stored in the memory;
and wherein the method further includes associating, in the control
electrical circuitry, the sensing data from the one or more sensors
with the selected activity stored in the memory.
77. The method of claim 76, further comprising: automatically
selecting an operational program based on the activity associated
with the sensing data.
78. The method of claim 58, wherein the one or more sensors include
a removable modular configuration, and wherein wearing a wearable
device on an additional body part of the subject includes replacing
at least one of the one or more sensor with one or more additional
sensors.
79. The method of claim 62, wherein actuating the one or more
actuators is responsive to the at least one characteristic sensed
by one or more sensors being over or below a threshold level, the
threshold level including at least one of an acceleration threshold
level of the subject, a threshold level of load applied to the one
or more sensors by a body part of the subject, a threshold level of
pressure applied to the one or more sensors by a body part of the
subject, a threshold level of tension applied to the one or more
sensors by a body part of the subject, a pulse threshold level of
the subject, a time threshold level, an oxygen threshold level of
the subject, a chemical threshold level of the subject, a
physiological threshold level of the subject, a travel distance
threshold level, or a temperature threshold level of the subject;
the method further including programming the threshold level for
the at least one characteristic into the control system.
80. The method of claim 62, further comprising automatically
selecting, via the control system, the at least one pre-programmed
operational program responsive to at least one of a selected
activity, a gait, a pace, a time, a position, a passage of an
amount of time, a distance traveled, a load applied to the one or
more sensors by a body part of the subject, pressure applied to the
one or more sensors by a body part of the subject, tension applied
to the one or more sensors by a body part of the subject, an amount
of load on a body part, an amount of tension on a body part, or a
movement sensed by the one or more sensors.
81. (canceled)
82. (canceled)
83. A garment system, comprising: at least one flexible compression
garment configured to be worn on at least one body part of a
subject, the at least one flexible compression garment defining an
interior space configured to receive the at least one body part; a
wearable device separate from the at least one flexible compression
garment and configured to be worn on a body part, the wearable
device including one or more sensors configured to sense at least
one characteristic associated with movement of the subject or at
least one physiological characteristic of the subject, the one or
more sensors further configured to output one or more sensing
signals indicative of the at least one characteristic; one or more
actuators positioned relative to the at least one flexible
compression garment and configured to selectively constrict or
selectively dilate the at least one flexible compression garment;
and a control system operably coupled to the one or more actuators
and further operably coupled to the one or more sensors to receive
the one or more sensing signals therefrom, the control system
including, control electrical circuitry configured to direct the
one or more actuators to selectively constrict or selectively
dilate during movement of the subject responsive to the one or more
sensing signals from the one or more sensors; and memory configured
to store sensing data corresponding to the one or more sensing
signals, a threshold level of the at least one characteristic, or
actuation data corresponding to the selective constriction or the
selective dilation of the at least one flexible compression
garment.
84. (canceled)
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Compression garments including clothing articles, such as
socks, arm sleeves, leg sleeves, etc., can provide support to
muscles of a body part on which the compression garments are worn.
This support can be useful for people who have to stand for long
periods, or people with circulation problems.
[0002] Compression sportswear, which is a specific type of
compression garment, can also be worn by athletes during exercise.
For example, bicycling shorts are a common type of compression
sportswear. Compression sportswear can improve muscle functioning,
and prevent chafing and rashes during and after exercise.
[0003] Compression garments are believed to have a number of
positive effects on a user. For example, compression garments can
help relieve pain from muscle stiffness and soreness, and reduce
time taken for muscles to repair themselves. Also, when an
appropriate amount of compression is used, compression garments can
improve venous return and oxygenation to working muscles.
SUMMARY
[0004] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a garment system
including at least one sensor, and at least one actuator that
operates responsive to sensing feedback from the at least one
sensor to activate a flexible compression garment to selectively
constrict or selectively dilate. Such selective compression or
relief of compression against the at least one body part can
improve muscle functioning, or joint functioning during an activity
such as a sport or other athletic activity.
[0005] In an embodiment, a garment system is disclosed. The garment
system includes at least one flexible compression garment
configured to be worn on at least one body part of a subject. The
at least one flexible compression garment defines an interior space
configured to receive the at least one body part. The garment
system further includes a wearable device separate from the at
least one flexible compression garment and configured to be worn on
an additional body part of the subject. The wearable device
includes one or more sensors configured to sense at least one
characteristic associated with movement or at least one
physiological characteristic of the subject. The one or more
sensors are further configured to output one or more sensing
signals indicative of the at least one characteristic. The garment
system additionally includes one or more actuators positioned
relative to the at least one flexible compression garment and
configured to selectively constrict or selectively dilate the at
least one flexible compression garment. The garment system also
includes a control system operably coupled to the one or more
actuators and further operably coupled to the one or more sensors
to receive the one or more sensing signals therefrom. The control
system includes control electrical circuitry configured to direct
the one or more actuators to selectively constrict or selectively
dilate the at least one flexible compression garment during
movement of the subject responsive to the one or more sensing
signals from the one or more sensors.
[0006] In an embodiment, a method of using a garment system is
disclosed. The method includes wearing at least one flexible
compression garment of the garment system on at least one body part
of a subject. The at least one flexible compression garment
includes one or more actuators configured to selectively constrict
or selectively dilate. The method further includes wearing a
wearable device on an additional body part of the subject. The
wearable device is separate from the at least one flexible
compression garment and includes one or more sensors configured to
sense one or more of at least one characteristic associated with
movement or at least one physiological characteristic of the
subject during movement. The method additionally includes, with the
one or more sensors, sensing the at least one characteristic. The
method also includes, responsive to sensing the at least one
characteristic via the one or more sensors, actuating the one or
more actuators to selectively constrict or selectively dilate the
at least one flexible compression garment during movement of the
subject.
[0007] Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used
in combination with one another, without limitation. In addition,
other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through
consideration of the following detailed description and the
accompanying drawings.
[0008] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not
intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative
aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further
aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by
reference to the drawings and the following detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0009] FIG. 1A is a diagrammatic view of a garment system according
to an embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 1B is a diagrammatic view of a garment system according
to an embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 2A is a side cutaway view of an embodiment of a garment
system including a flexible compression garment worn on a leg of a
subject and footwear worn on the foot of the subject according to
an embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 2B is an isometric cutaway view of a section of the
flexible compression garment shown in FIG. 2A, without the flexible
compression garment shown being worn on the leg arm of the
subject.
[0013] FIG. 2C is a side cutaway view of a flexible compression
garment worn on an arm of a subject according to an embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 2D is a side cutaway view of an embodiment of a garment
system including a flexible compression garment worn on a leg of a
subject and footwear worn on the foot of the subject according to
an embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 2E is a side cross-sectional view of footwear of the
garment system of FIG. 1A according to embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 2F is a top view of a wearable device of a garment
system worn on a wrist of a subject according to an embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 2G is a top view of a wearable device of a garment
system worn on a wrist of a subject according to an embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 2H is a top view of a wearable device of a garment
system worn on a finger of a subject according to an
embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 2I is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a
wearable device of a garment system worn on the head of a subject
according to an embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 3A is an isometric cutaway view of the flexible
compression garment shown in FIG. 1A according to an
embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the flexible
compression garment shown in FIG. 3A taken along line 3B-3B
thereof.
[0022] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the flexible
compression garment shown in FIG. 3A prior to actuation of one or
more actuators or at a low actuation level.
[0023] FIG. 3D is a cross-sectional view of the flexible
compression garment shown in FIG. 3A after actuation of one or more
actuators or at a relatively higher actuation level than in FIG.
3C.
[0024] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a garment
system including a plurality of ring-shaped actuators.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of an embodiment of a
garment system.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method of
selectively constricting or dilating a flexible compression garment
responsive to sensing feedback from one or more activity
sensors.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method of
selectively constricting or dilating a flexible compression garment
responsive to sensing feedback from one or more activity
sensors.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a garment system
including at least one sensor disposed on a wearable device and at
least one actuator that operates responsive to sensing feedback
from the at least one activity sensor to cause a flexible
compression garment to selectively constrict or selectively dilate,
thereby selectively compressing against or selectively relieving
compression against at least one body part of a subject. Such
selective constriction or selective dilation about the at least one
body part can improve muscle functioning, or joint functioning
during an activity such as a sport or other activity.
[0029] In the following detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the
drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,
unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments
described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not
meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other
changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of
the subject matter presented here.
[0030] FIG. 1A is an illustration of a garment system 100 according
to an embodiment. The garment system 100 includes a flexible
compression garment 102 that is configured to be worn on at least
one body part 104 of a subject 106 during use. The garment system
100 includes one or more activity sensors 108 supported by a
wearable device 107. The garment system 100 further includes one or
more actuators 110 positioned relative to the flexible compression
garment 102 and configured to selectively constrict or selectively
dilate the flexible compression garment 102 about the at least one
body part 104, thereby selectively compressing against or
selectively relieving compression against at least one body part
104.
[0031] The garment system 100 further includes a control system 112
operably coupled to the one or more activity sensors 108 and the
one or more actuators 110, and configured to receive one or more
sensing signals 109 (carrying sensing data) from the one or more
activity sensors 108 and send one or more actuation signals 116 to
the one or more actuators 110 to direct actuation thereof
responsive to the sensing signals 109. The control system 112
includes control electrical circuitry 114 and a power supply 118
for powering one or more of the one or more activity sensors 108,
the one or more actuators 110, or the control system 112
itself.
[0032] The flexible compression garment 102 can be substantially
tubular and configured to generally conform to the at least one
body part 104 when worn thereon. For example, the flexible
compression garment 102 can be made from any suitable material.
More specifically, for example, the flexible compression garment
102 can be made from neoprene, nylon, synthetic rubber, or any
other suitable synthetic or natural fabric or polymeric
material.
[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one body part
104 is a leg of the user, which can include one or more of a
portion of the subject's 106 upper leg such as the thigh, lower leg
such as the calf, or knee joint therebetween that is received by
the flexible compression garment 102. However, as discussed in more
detail below, the garment systems disclosed herein can be employed
on many other types of body parts. For example, the at least one
body part 104 of the subject 106 can include one or more of at
least a portion of an upper arm, forearm, an elbow joint
therebetween, a wrist, a hand, a foot, a neck, a head, a hip, a
torso, or at least a portion of any of the foregoing. As another
example, the flexible compression garment 102 can be configured as
a shirt, and the at least one body part 104 includes at least a
portion of the chest or abdomen of the subject 106. Thus, in some
embodiments, the flexible compression garment 102 can be configured
as a limb sleeve (e.g., arm or leg sleeve), a joint sleeve (e.g.,
elbow, knee, ankle, wrist, or finger sleeve), a shirt, a vest, a
jacket, an undershirt, a girdle, an abdominal support, a back
support, gloves, shorts, pants, or socks.
[0034] The one or more activity sensors 108 can be mounted on,
embedded in, or otherwise supported by the wearable device 107,
such as in or on footwear as shown in FIG. 1A. The one or more
activity sensors 108 are positioned and configured relative at
least an additional body part 105 of the subject 106. For example,
each or some of the one or more activity sensors 108 can be
positioned adjacent to or proximate to at least one foot or at
least one wrist to monitor at least one characteristic associated
with movement of the subject or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject. During use, the one or more activity
sensors 108 output the one or more sensing signals 109 (e.g.,
signals from the one or more activity sensors) indicative of the at
least one characteristic. It is noted that the at least one
characteristic associated with movement of the subject 106 or at
least one physiological characteristic of the subject 106 to be
sensed can involve a plurality of muscles or a plurality joints.
For example, in the case where the flexible compression garment 102
receives at least a portion of an upper arm and at least a portion
of a forearm of the subject 106, the at least one muscle of the at
least one body part 104 can include a plurality of muscles in each
of the upper arm and lower arm of the at least one body part 104
and the at least one joint of the at least one body part 104 can
include the elbow joint.
[0035] In an embodiment, the wearable device 107 is configured to
be worn on an additional (e.g., separate or distinct) body part 105
than the at least one body part 104 on which the at least one
flexible compression garment 102 is configured to be worn. Thus,
the wearable device 107 is separate and distinct from the at least
one flexible compression garment 102. For example, the wearable
device 107 can be configured as footwear and the flexible
compression garment 102 can be configured as an arm sleeve. In an
embodiment, the wearable device 107 is configured to be worn on an
additional, adjacent but separate, body part than the at least one
body part 104 on which the at least one flexible compression
garment 102 is configured to be worn on. For example, the wearable
device 107 can be configured as footwear and the flexible
compression garment 102 can be configured as a leg sleeve that is
worn on the same or different leg as the footwear. In an
embodiment, the wearable device 107 is configured to be worn on the
at least one body part 104 that the at least one flexible
compression garment 102 is configured to be worn on, but remain
separate and distinct from the flexible compression garment 102.
For example, the wearable device 107 can be configured as footwear
such as a shoe and the flexible compression garment 102 can be
configured as a sock.
[0036] The one or more actuators 110 are positioned relative to the
flexible compression garment 102 and configured to cause the
flexible compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or
selectively dilate the flexible compression garment 102, thereby
selectively compressing or selectively relieving compression
against the at least one body part 104 responsive to the one or
more sensing signals 109 output by the one or more activity sensors
108. For example, the one or more actuators 110 can be embedded in
the flexible compression garment 102, mounted interiorly inside of
the flexible compression garment 102 in an interior space thereof
in which the at least one body part 104 is received, or mounted
exteriorly on the flexible compression garment 102.
[0037] As discussed above, the control system 112 (e.g., a computer
control system) is operably coupled to the one or more activity
sensors 108 and the one or more actuators 110. For example, the
control system 112 can be wirelessly operably coupled to the one or
more activity sensors 108 or the one or more actuators 110. In an
embodiment, the control system 112 can be operably coupled to the
one or more activity sensors 108 or the one or more actuators 110
via a wired connection, such as physical electrical wiring. The
control system 112 can be sized and configured to be conveniently
worn or carried by the subject 106, such as via the wearable device
107 configured as the footwear shown on the subject 106 in FIG. 1A,
or on yet another body part such as in or on another wearable
device 113 (e.g., a strap, wrap, article of clothing, garment, or
belt shown in FIG. 1B) worn around a waist, chest, arm, hand, leg,
foot, or head, of the subject. However, in an embodiment, the
control system 112 may be mounted on, attached to, embedded in, or
housed in the flexible compression garment 102.
[0038] The power supply 118 of the control system 112 can include
at least one of one or more batteries, a stretchable/flexible power
supply, a fuel cell, an energy harvester, a solar energy harvester,
a kinetic energy harvester, a triboelectric nanogenerator, or other
suitable power supply. For example, in an embodiment, the power
supply 118 may be housed separately from the rest of the control
system 112 including the control electrical circuitry 114. Suitable
batteries for use as the power supply 118 include one or more of a
microbattery, an alkaline battery, a lithium ion battery, a coin
battery, a watch battery, a button battery, a zinc-air battery, a
thin film battery, a flexible battery, or any other suitable
battery. The power supply 118 can be operably coupled to and
configured to provide power (e.g., voltage or current) to at least
some of the components of the garment system 100, such as one or
more of the control electrical circuitry 114, the one or more
activity sensors 108, or the one or more actuators 110.
[0039] In an embodiment, the power supply 118 can be stored or
housed separately from the control electrical circuitry 114. In an
embodiment, the power supply 118 can be stored or housed separately
from the one or more actuators 110 or one or more sensors 108. In
an embodiment the power supply 118 can be stored or housed on a
separate part of the body of the subject 106 than the control
electrical circuitry 114, one or more actuators 110, or one or more
sensors 108. In an embodiment, the power supply 118 can include a
wireless power supply, such as a power supply configured to supply
power via induction (e.g., direct or resonant magnetic
induction).
[0040] In an embodiment, the power supply 118 is rechargeable. For
example, a wearable device 107 can include a charging port operably
coupled to the power supply 118 and configured recharge the power
supply 118.
[0041] The control system 112 including any parts thereof can be
configured to be removably disposed on the wearable device 107. For
example, one or more of the control electrical circuitry 114, the
one or more sensors 108, or the power supply 118 can be configured
in a modular format, such as replaceable or changeable activity
sensors 108. One or more of the control electrical circuitry 114 or
the one or more sensors 108 can be configured to directly or
indirectly interface with a computing device. For example, the
control electrical circuitry 114 can be configured to be removably
disposed on the wearable device 107, and the control electrical
circuitry 114 is also configured to interface, either directly or
indirectly, with a computing device, such as by a hard connection
(e.g., USB connection) or wireless port on the thereon. In an
embodiment, at least one of the control electrical circuitry 114 or
the one or more sensors 108 are further configured to upload or
download one or more of at least one operational program, threshold
level, or sensing data to or from the computing device.
[0042] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 can
be removably disposed on or at least partially embedded within the
wearable device 107. For example, the one or more sensors 108 can
be modular such as replaceable or changeable activity sensors. In
an embodiment, at least one of the modular one or more activity
sensors 108 can be removed from the wearable device 107 and be
replaced with an identical activity sensor or an additional
different type of activity sensor. For example, a modular pedometer
and a modular timer on a wearable device can be removed and be
replaced with a modular altimeter and modular chemical sensor.
[0043] One or more operational programs that the control electrical
circuitry 114 of the control system 112 employs for directing and
controlling the operation of the one or more activity sensors 108
and the one or more actuators 110 can be pre-programmed in the
control electrical circuitry 114, or programmed by the subject 106
or other person such as a medical professional like a doctor, a
nurse, a physical therapist, a trainer, etc. For example, the
programming of the control electrical circuitry 114 can be affected
via at least one of software, firmware, programmable logical
devices, or other technique for controlling the one or more
activity sensors 108 and the one or more actuators 110 or other
components of the garment system 100 in a selected manner.
Programming of the control electrical circuitry 114 can be affected
via a user interface which can include a keypad, a computer
terminal, a touchscreen, voice command, or other technique for
inputting information.
[0044] During use in some operational situations, responsive to the
one or more activity sensors 108 sensing the at least one
characteristic associated with movement of the subject 106 or at
least one physiological characteristic of the subject 106, the
control electrical circuitry 114 directs the one or more actuators
110 to selectively constrict the flexible compression garment 102
(e.g., compress against the at least one body part 104) to provide
more support thereto or to improve muscle or joint functioning,
such as increased blood flow or increased oxygenation to at least
one muscle or at least one joint of the at least one body part 104.
For example, responsive to the one or more activity sensors 108
sensing the at least one characteristic associated with movement of
the subject 106 or at least one physiological characteristic of the
subject 106 is above (or below) a threshold level, the control
electrical circuitry 114 directs the one or more actuators 110 to
selectively constrict the flexible compression garment 102. For
example, the constriction applied by the one or more actuators 110
can be a gradient of constriction, such as along the at least one
body part 104. In a more specific embodiment, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110
to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively
constrict against at least one first portion of the at least one
body part 104 with a first level or amount of constriction and
selectively constrict at least one second portion of the at least
one body part 104 with a second level of constriction that is
different than the first level of constriction. As another example,
the constriction applied by the one or more actuators 110 can
include one or more constriction pulses. The constriction pulses
can be applied substantially in rhythm, concert, or cycle with the
sensed at least one characteristic of the subject 106, such as with
a gait, pulse, strain, tension, or any other transitory sensed
characteristic of the subject 106.
[0045] During use in other operational situations, responsive to
the one or more activity sensors 108 sensing the at least one
characteristic associated with movement of the subject or at least
one physiological characteristic of the subject, such as those
related to a muscle activity or joint activity, the control
electrical circuitry 114 directs the one or more actuators 110 to
selectively dilate (e.g., relieve compression against the at least
one body part 104) the flexible compression garment 102, such as
during a portion of an athletic activity in which at least one
muscle or the at least one joint of subject is minimally exerted or
stressed, respectively. For example, responsive to the one or more
activity sensors 108 sensing the at least one characteristic
associated with movement of the subject or at least one
physiological characteristic of the subject 106 that is below (or
above) a threshold level, the control electrical circuitry 114
directs the one or more actuators 110 to selectively dilate the
flexible compression garment 102. The selective dilation can
include a gradient of dilation or a pulse of dilation similar or
identical to the gradient and pulse constrictions described
above.
[0046] In an embodiment, the threshold level discussed above
includes one or more of an acceleration threshold level of the
subject 106, a pulse threshold level of the subject 106, a time
threshold level, an oxygen threshold level of the subject 106
(e.g., blood oxygen content), a chemical threshold level of a
subject 106, a physiological threshold level of a subject 106
(e.g., a pressure, load, tension, etc. on the one or more activity
sensors 108, the subject 106, or a body part of the subject 106), a
travel distance threshold level, or a temperature threshold level
of the subject 106.
[0047] During use in operational situations, responsive to the one
or more activity sensors 108 sensing the at least one
characteristic associated with movement of the subject or at least
one physiological characteristic of the subject 106, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110
to selectively constrict and selectively dilate, such as in a
pulsatile pattern, cycle or rhythm, constrict for a duration and
then dilate upon expiration of the duration, selectively constrict
or selectively dilate different portions of the flexible
compression garment 102, selectively constrict or selectively
dilate portions of the flexible compression garment 102 in a
travelling gradient (e.g., creating peristaltic motion or a massage
effect on the at least one body part 104).
[0048] For example, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct
the one or more actuators 110 to selectively constrict or
selectively dilate the flexible compression garment 102 about the
at least one body part 104 to a first selected amount, followed by
selectively constricting or selectively dilating the flexible
compression garment 102 to a second selected amount that is
different than the first amount. In an embodiment, responsive to
receiving one or more sensing signals 109 from the one or more
activity sensors 108 during selective constriction or dilation, the
control electrical circuitry 114 can be configured to alter the
actuation of the one or more actuators 110. For example, the
control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the power supply 118 to
alter (e.g., increase or decrease) an actuation stimulus supplied
to the one or more actuators 110, thereby increasing or decreasing
the selective constriction or dilation of the flexible compression
garment 102 during use at least partially based on the one or more
sensing signals 109 from the one or more activity sensors 108
sensed during selective compression or selective dilation. In an
embodiment, an operational program or the control electrical
circuitry 114 can include instructions for one or more of a
plurality of amounts (e.g., strength) of constriction or dilation,
one or more durations for each of the plurality of amounts, or
discrete portions or locations of the flexible compression garment
102 at which the plurality of amounts can be applied.
[0049] In an embodiment, the garment system 100 can also be
operated according to a feedback loop. For example, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the power supply 118 to alter
(e.g., increase or decrease) an actuation stimulus supplied to the
one or more actuators 110, thereby increasing or decreasing the
selective constriction or dilation of the flexible compression
garment 102 to a first level during use at least partially based on
the one or more sensing signals 109 from the one or more activity
sensors 108 sensed during selective compression or selective
dilation, followed by the control electrical circuitry 114 again
directing the power supply 118 to alter (e.g., increase or
decrease) an actuation stimulus supplied to the one or more
actuators 110, thereby increasing or decreasing the selective
constriction or dilation of the flexible compression garment 102 to
a different second level during use at least partially based on
updated information encoded in the one or more sensing signals 109
from the one or more activity sensors 108 sensed during selective
compression or selective dilation.
[0050] Although only one flexible compression garment 102 is shown
in FIG. 1A, in other embodiments, a plurality of flexible
compression garments 102 can be worn on different body parts of the
subject 106. In such an embodiment, each of the plurality of
flexible compression garments 102 includes its own one or more
actuators that can be individually operably coupled to the control
system 112 and independently operate according to directions (e.g.,
actuation signals 116) from the control system 112. In an
embodiment, each of the plurality of flexible compression garments
102 can include one or more activity sensors therein. In an
embodiment, each of the plurality of flexible compression garments
102 can be controlled responsive to sensing signals from one or
more activity sensors in a single wearable device (e.g., footwear,
wrist band, watch, etc.) deployed on a single body part or each via
a separate wearable device bearing one or more activity sensors
thereon deployed on one or more or two or more additional body
parts.
[0051] As mentioned above, the one or more activity sensors 108 can
be configured to sense at least one characteristic associated with
movement of the subject or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject. For example, the at least one
characteristic can be at least one physical characteristic, at
least one chemical characteristic (e.g., biochemical or
biological), or at least one physiological characteristic of the
subject 106, such as of the at one least additional body part 105
on which the wearable device 107 is worn or other body part of the
subject 106. More specifically, for example, the at least one
characteristic can include at least one of a change in motion of
travel of the subject 106, a change in direction of travel of the
subject 106, a load on a body part of the subject 106 (e.g., a load
applied to the one or more activity sensors 108 by or through a
body part of the subject 106), pressure on a body part of the
subject 106 (e.g., pressure applied to the one or more activity
sensors 108 by or through a body part of the subject 106), tension
on a body part of the subject 106 (e.g., tension applied to the one
or more activity sensors 108 by or through a body part of the
subject 106), velocity of a body part of the subject 106, velocity
of the subject 106, acceleration of a body part of the subject 106,
a pulse in a body part of the subject 106, temperature in a body
part of the subject 106, oxygenation in a body part of the subject
106, nerve activity in a body part of the subject 106, location of
the subject 106, gait of the subject 106, pace at which the subject
106 moves, distance that the subject 106 has traveled, or
variations or patterns of any of the foregoing. Additionally, the
at least one characteristic can include nerve activity of the
subject 106, chemical excretion of the subject 106, temperature of
the subject 106, heart rate of the subject 106, temperature of the
ambient environment of the subject 106, oxygenation of the subject
106, acoustic emission from at least one joint or muscle of the
subject 106, or other suitable characteristic that can be
correlated with the subject 106, such as at one or more body parts
of the subject 106. In an embodiment, the one or more activity
sensors 108 are configured to only sense the at least one
characteristic of at least one muscle of the subject 106, while in
other embodiments, the one or more activity sensors 108 are
configured to only sense the at least one characteristic of at
least one joint of the subject 106.
[0052] In order to sense the at least one characteristic associated
with movement of the subject 106 or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject 106, various activity sensors can be
used. For example, in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the
one or more activity sensors 108 can include at least one of an
electromyography sensor, a thermal sensor, a muscle oxygenation
sensor, an acoustic sensor, an accelerometer, a pedometer, a
counter, a tension sensor, a pressure sensor, a time keeper (e.g.,
watch, stop-watch, or timer), a pulse sensor, heart rate sensor, an
oximeter, a global positioning system ("GPS") receiver, an
altimeter, a resistance meter, a voltage meter (e.g., multimeter),
a chemical sensor, a biochemical sensor, or a biosensor. The one or
more activity sensors 108 can be disposed at least partially on an
interior surface of the wearable device 107 (e.g., footwear), the
interior surface defining an interior space that receives a body
part such as a foot, or at least partially embedded in the wearable
device 107. The interior surface can be configured to isolate the
one or more activity sensors 108 from external contact, such as
contact with the skin of the subject 106. In an embodiment, the
interior surface is configured to cause one or more of the activity
sensors to be in contact with the skin of the subject 106.
[0053] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 are
configured to sense the at least one characteristic associated with
movement of the subject 106 or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject 106 associated with at least one
selected or specific activity, such as a sport. For example, the
activity sensors 108 can sense movement or physiological
characteristics associated with one or more of strength training,
skill training, golf, baseball, cricket, basketball, volleyball,
handball, tennis, racquetball, squash, badminton, table tennis,
football, soccer, jai alai, wrestling, boxing, martial arts,
walking, running, cycling, swimming, rowing, dancing, skiing, water
skiing, billiards, darts, or Frisbee.
[0054] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 are
configured to sense onset of or a threshold level of activity or
exertion, such as a threshold level of the at least one
characteristic. In such an embodiment, the control electrical
circuitry 114 is configured to direct the one or more actuators 110
to selectively constrict or dilate the flexible compression garment
102 responsive to the one or more activity sensors 108 sensing
participation in the selected activity or the threshold level of
exertion therein. In an embodiment, the control electrical
circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110 to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate the flexible
compression garment 102 according to an operational program
associated with the at least one characteristic associated with
movement of the subject or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject, or a selected activity correlated to
the at least one characteristic. One suitable activity sensor
configured to sense nerve impulses of the at least one muscle
indicative of the onset of the muscle activity includes one or more
electromyography sensors, which can be attached, adhered, or
embedded within the wearable device 107 or attached directly to the
subject 106. For example, responsive to sensing the onset of muscle
activity via the one or more electromyography sensors, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110
to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively
constrict. Examples of suitable electromyography sensors that can
be used to practice one or more embodiments disclosed herein are
disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 20060058694
and 20130041235, and in Kim, et al., Science 333, 838-843 (2011),
the disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein, in its
entirety, by this reference.
[0055] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 are
configured to sense an injury of the subject 106. For example, the
one or more activity sensors 108 can detect a level or change in
one or more of a pace of the subject 106, gait of the subject 106,
pulse of the subject 106, load on a body part, tension on a body
part, pressure on a body part, or strain on a body part
inconsistent with an established level for that specific
characteristic. As another example, the one or more activity
sensors 108 can detect a limp in the subject 106, or that the
subject 106 is favoring a foot, leg, or arm, such as by comparing
current sensing data with baseline or model sensing data for the
same at least one characteristic. As yet another example, the one
or more activity sensors 108 can detect an oxygen content, lactic
acid content, hydration level, or other characteristic associated
with an injury or cause of impaired performance.
[0056] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more passive infrared thermal sensors. For example,
each passive infrared thermal sensor is positioned on or in the
wearable device 107 and configured to sense infrared radiation from
the subject 106 or a body part of the subject 106, such as from the
foot of the subject 106 inside of the wearable device 107. An
increase in the infrared radiation can be indicative of or
correlated with increased muscle temperature, which can be
indicative of increased muscle activity. A decrease in the infrared
radiation can be indicative of or correlated with decreased muscle
temperature, which can be indicative of decreased muscle activity.
For example, responsive to sensing an increase in or a threshold
level of infrared radiation, the control electrical circuitry 114
can direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or dilate. As
another example, responsive to sensing a decrease in or less than a
threshold level of infrared radiation, the control electrical
circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the
flexible compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or
selectively dilate due to muscle activity decreasing.
[0057] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 can
be at least one thermal sensor configured to sense the temperature
of the ambient environment of the subject, temperature of the
subject, or the temperature of a body part of the subject either
directly or indirectly. In an embodiment, the flexible compression
garment 102 can include one or more fluid channels through which
coolant or heating fluid can flow, a fluid reservoir holding the
coolant or heating fluid, and a pump configured to pump the fluid
coolant or heating fluid from the reservoir through the one or more
fluid channels. Thus, in such an embodiment, the control electrical
circuitry 114 can direct the pump to pump fluid coolant or heating
fluid from the fluid coolant reservoir through the one or more
fluid channels to help cool or heat the subject 106 or the at least
one body part of the subject 106.
[0058] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more muscle oxygenation sensors or an oximeter. For
example, each muscle oxygenation sensor can include a near infrared
sensor positioned and configured to deliver light in the near
infrared spectrum to at least one muscle of the subject 106 and
detect light reflected from the at least one muscle (e.g., tissue),
thereby sensing absorption of the near infrared light by the muscle
that differs in oxygenated and deoxygenated tissues. Examples of
near infrared sensors for measuring the oxygenation of muscle
tissues that can be used to practice one or more embodiments
disclosed herein are disclosed in Hamaoka, et al., Phil. Trans. R.
Soc. A (2011) 369, 4591-4604, which is incorporated herein, in its
entirety, by reference. Changes in the absorption of near infrared
light from the at least one muscle can be correlated with or can be
indicative of increased or decreased muscle oxygenation. For
example, changes in the absorption of the near infrared light can
be associated with increased exertion or decreased muscle
oxygenation (e.g., associated with overwork, cramping,
claudication, or other impaired performance).
[0059] In an embodiment, responsive to sensing a change in muscle
oxygenation, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the
one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment
102 to selectively constrict or selectively dilate. For example,
responsive to sensing an increase in muscle oxygenation over a
threshold level, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct
the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression
garment 102 to selectively constrict to thereby increase
compression of the flexible compression garment 102 against the at
least one body part 104 due to muscle activity increasing. For
example, responsive to sensing a decrease in muscle oxygenation
below a threshold level, the control electrical circuitry 114 can
direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively dilate to thereby relieve
compression against the at least one body part 104 due to muscle
activity decreasing. In other embodiments, the one or more
oxygenation sensors can be used to sense a change in joint
oxygenation.
[0060] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 can
include multiple near infrared source-detector pairs that can
measure spatial and regional differences in skeletal muscle
oxygenation or localized changes in the subject 106. For example,
responsive to sensing a localized decrease in infrared radiation
below a threshold level indicative of significantly decreased
muscle oxygenation and blood flow associated with a muscle cramp,
the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict to provide localized support and increase
blood pressure. For example, responsive to sensing a varied
decrease in infrared radiation indicative of a gradient of
decreased muscle oxygenation and blood flow associated with muscle
overexertion, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the
one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment
102 to selectively constrict with a first level of compression and
selectively constrict with a second level of compression or to
cause the flexible compression garment 102 to intermittently
selectively constrict against only a part of the at least one body
part 104 to provide localized to increased blood flow to part of
the at least one body part 104.
[0061] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more acoustic transducers configured to irradiate
the one or more body parts with acoustic radiation and receive
reflected acoustic radiation responsive thereto. The received
reflected acoustic radiation can be correlated with or can be
indicative of muscle activity or joint activity of one or more body
parts including the at least one body part 104. For example, a
relatively stronger/more intense reflected acoustic radiation
received by the one or more acoustic transducers can be indicative
of relatively tenser, more active muscles, while a relatively
weaker/less intense reflected acoustic radiation received by the
one or more acoustic transducers can be indicative of relatively
looser, less active muscles.
[0062] In an embodiment, the acoustic transducer includes an
ultrasound transducer, and each of the acoustic radiation and the
reflected acoustic radiation includes ultrasound radiation. The
received reflected ultrasound radiation can be correlated with or
can be indicative of at least one characteristic of one or more
body parts including the at least one body part 104. For example,
altered echogenicity detected by the one or more acoustic
transducers can be indicative of swelling or inflammation of the
muscle. For example, altered echogenicity detected by the one or
more acoustic transducers can be indicative of joint effusion of
the at least one joint. For example, Doppler ultrasound sensing of
the at least one muscle can detect increased blood flow within the
at least one muscle, indicating increased activity of the at least
one muscle. For example, Doppler ultrasound sensing of a ligament
or tendon can detect limited activity within the ligament or
tendon, indicating stress to the region. In an embodiment,
responsive to the one or more acoustic transducers detecting a
change in at least one characteristic of the at least one body
part, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or
more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate around at least one
muscle or at least one joint. For example, responsive to sensing
echogenicity indicating an increase in muscle or joint activity,
the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict around at least one muscle or at least one
joint of the at least one body part 104. For example, responsive to
sensing echogenicity indicating a decrease in muscle or joint
activity, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one
or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102
to selectively dilate around the at least one muscle or at least
one joint of the at least one body part 104 due to muscle activity
decreasing. For example, responsive to sensing echogenicity
indicating inflammation in the least one muscle or the at least one
joint, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or
more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict, and thereby support, the at least one muscle
or at least one joint of the at least one body part 104.
[0063] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more acoustic myography sensors positioned and
configured to sense acoustic emission from a body part, such as the
at least one body part 104. An example of an acoustic myography
sensor for sensing muscle use suitable for practicing one or more
embodiments disclosed herein is disclosed in Harrison, et al.,
Physiol Rep, 1(2): e00029; 2013, the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein, in its entirety, by this reference. For
example, responsive to sensing a high frequency by the acoustic
myography sensor, indicative of increased muscle use, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110
to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively
constrict around at least one muscle of the at least one body part
104.
[0064] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more acoustic sensors positioned and configured to
sense acoustic emission from at least one joint. For example, the
one or more acoustic sensors can be positioned adjacent to or
proximate to at least one joint (e.g., an ankle as illustrated in
FIG. 1A, a wrist, or a knee) so that the one or more acoustic
sensors can receive acoustic emission from the at least one joint
that can be indicative of joint problems, such as aggravation of an
arthritic or an osteoarthritic condition and resultant arthralgia.
For example, responsive to sensing acoustic emission or an increase
in acoustic emission from the at least one joint, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110
to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively
constrict near or around the at least one joint and the at least
one muscle around the at least one joint of the at least one body
part 104 to thereby alleviate arthralgia.
[0065] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more of at least one chemical sensor, at least one
biochemical sensor, or at least one biosensor configured to detect
an analyte from the skin, a muscle, or a joint of the of the
subject 106. For example, at least one chemical sensor, at least
one biochemical sensor, or at least one biosensor can be configured
to detect at least one of an ion, a salt, glucose, a lactate,
lactic acid, or an inflammatory molecule from the skin, at least
one muscle, or the at least one joint of the subject 106. For
example, responsive to sensing an increase in lactic acid in at
least one muscle by a biosensor indicative of muscle fatigue, the
control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict around the at least one muscle of the subject
106. In an embodiment, a chemical sensor can detect the level of
salt in sweat from a subject. For example, the amount of salt in
the sweat of a subject 106 indicates possible hypernatremia (e.g.,
dehydration) or hyponatremia and the symptoms thereof, including
imminent cramping. For example, responsive to sensing an
undesirable salt level in the sweat of a subject 106 being
indicative of hypernatremia, the control electrical circuitry 114
can direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively constrict around at least
one body part 104 of the subject 106.
[0066] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more accelerometers positioned and configured to
sense acceleration or deceleration of a subject 106 or body part of
the subject 106, such as the at least one body part 104 or at least
an additional body part 105. For example, responsive to sensing a
high deceleration rate by the accelerometer, the control electrical
circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the
flexible compression garment 102 to selectively constrict, such as
around at least one muscle of the at least one body part 104 to
brace the muscle against forces on the at least one body part 104
during deceleration. In another example, responsive to sensing a
high acceleration rate by the accelerometer, the control electrical
circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the
flexible compression garment 102 to selectively dilate, such as
around at least one muscle or joint of the at least one body part
104 to provide freedom of movement to the at least one muscle or
joint of at least one body part 104 during acceleration.
[0067] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include at least one of one or more counters (e.g., a pedometer)
positioned and configured to count a specific incidence of physical
activity or movement of the subject 106 or body part of the subject
106 (e.g., footsteps, pedal rotation cycle, arm movement, tackles
in football, laps, etc.), such as the at least one body part 104 or
at least an additional body part 105. For example, responsive to
sensing a specific number of footfalls or strides with a pedometer,
the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict, such as around at least one muscle of the at
least one body part 104 to support the at least one muscle. In
another example, responsive to sensing a specific number of
footfalls on a pedometer, the control electrical circuitry 114 can
direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively dilate, such as around at
least one muscle of the at least one body part 104 to allow more
blood flow to the at least one muscle. In an embodiment, responsive
to a specific number of counts, such as steps, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110
to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively
constrict or selectively dilate in increasing or decreasing amounts
as the count increases; in a gradient, such as along the at least
one body part 104; or in a pulsatile manner substantially as
described herein.
[0068] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more tension sensors (e.g., a strain gauge, a force
transducer, or a universal-force moment sensor) configured to
detect or measure tension on a body part of the subject 106, such
as one or more muscles, tendons, or ligaments. For example,
responsive to receiving sensing data of tension beyond a threshold
level on at least one body part 104 or at least an additional body
part 105 of a subject 106, the control electrical circuitry 114 can
direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively constrict, such as around an
ankle or leg, to support the ankle or restrict the movement
thereof. For example, responsive to receiving sensing data of
tension below a threshold level on a body part of a subject 106,
the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively dilate, such as around the at least one body part 104
to allow more blood flow or freedom of movement thereto. In an
embodiment, responsive to the one or more activity sensors 108
detecting a tension of a body part, the control electrical
circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the
flexible compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or
selectively dilate in a gradient, such as along the at least one
body part 104, or in a pulsatile manner substantially as described
herein.
[0069] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more pressure sensors (e.g., a piezoelectric sensor
or strain gauge, a force or pressure transducer, a capacitive
pressure sensor, or an electromagnetic pressure sensor) configured
to detect pressure, load, or force exerted by or through a body
part of the subject 106 on the one or more activity sensors 108 or
force on a body part of the subject 106 (e.g., at a foot, joint, or
muscle), such as the at least one body part 104 or at least an
additional body part 105. For example, responsive to receiving
sensing data of pressure or force beyond a threshold level on the
at least one body part 104 or at least an additional body part 105
of a subject 106, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct
the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression
garment 102 to selectively constrict, such as around an ankle or
leg, to provide support or restrict the movement thereof. In an
embodiment, strain and pressure sensors can be used over time to
sense pressure or tension in the at least one body part 104 or at
least an additional body part 105 as a function of time. Both
strain and pressure sensors can also be used to determine number of
steps/distance traveled by the subject 106 and adjust the selective
amount of constriction or dilation of the flexible compression
garment 102, as desired.
[0070] For example, responsive to receiving sensing data of
pressure or force below a threshold level on a body part of a
subject 106, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the
one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment
102 to selectively dilate, such as around the at least one body
part 104 to allow more blood flow or freedom of movement thereto.
In an embodiment, responsive to the one or more activity sensors
108 detecting pressure or force on a body part, or force exerted on
the one or more activity sensors 108 by a body part of the subject
106 the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate in a gradient, such as
along the at least one body part 104, or in a pulsatile manner
substantially as described herein.
[0071] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more time-keepers configured to detect the duration
of an activity or duration of use of a body exertion of a body
part, such as the at least one body part 104 or at least an
additional body part 105. For example, responsive to passage of a
specific duration of time, the control electrical circuitry 114 can
direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively constrict, to provide
resistance or support, or restrict the movement thereof. For
example, responsive to passage of a specific duration of time, the
control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively dilate, such as around the at least one body part 104
to allow more blood flow or freedom of movement thereto. In an
embodiment, responsive to the passage of a specific duration of
time, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or
more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate in a gradient, such as
along the at least one body part 104, or in a pulsatile manner
substantially as described herein.
[0072] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include a global positioning system ("GPS") receiver or an
altimeter configured to detect a distance traveled, velocity of the
subject 106 or a body part of the subject 106, or an elevation of
the subject 106. For example, responsive to sensing a specific
distance traveled or elevation at which the selected activity is
taking place, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the
one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment
102 to selectively constrict, to provide resistance or support, or
restrict the movement thereof. As an example, responsive to sensing
a specific distance traveled or elevation at which the selected
activity is taking place, the control electrical circuitry 114 can
direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively dilate, such as around the
at least one body part 104 to allow more blood flow or freedom of
movement thereto. In an embodiment, responsive to detecting a
specific distance traveled or elevation at which the specific
activity is taking place, the control electrical circuitry 114 can
direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or selectively
dilate in a gradient, such as along the at least one body part 104,
or in a pulsatile manner substantially as described herein.
[0073] In an embodiment, the one more activity sensors 108 can
include one or more pulse sensors configured to measure a pulse in
a body part of the subject 106 (e.g., a peripheral pulse in an
artery in a foot, ankle, wrist, or other body part). Thus, in an
embodiment, the one or more pulse sensors can be selectively
positioned on the wearable device 107 or optionally in the flexible
compression garment 102 to be proximate to an artery of the subject
106. For example, a pulse sensor can include an optical pulse
sensor, such as those used in fitness bracelets, or an acoustic
sensor. In an embodiment, responsive to sensing an increase in the
peripheral pulse rate in the at least one body part 104 or at least
an additional body part 105 of the subject 106 indicative of
increased muscle activity within the body part, the control
electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110
to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively
constrict around the at least one muscle or at least one joint of
the at least one body part 104. As another example, responsive to
sensing a decrease in the pulse rate in the at least one body part
104 or at least an additional body part 105 of the subject 106
indicative of decreased muscle activity within the body part 104 or
105, the control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or
more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
dilate around at least one muscle or at least one joint of the at
least one body part 104.
[0074] In an embodiment, one more optional additional types of
activity sensors 108' can be incorporated into the wearable device
107 (e.g., footwear) and operably coupled to the control electrical
circuitry 114. In an embodiment, the one or more additional types
of activity sensors can include one or more heart rate sensors that
are configured to sense a heart rate of the subject 106 or one or
more electrocardiography sensor. For example, the activity sensor
108' can include a chest band sensor that is incorporated into the
wearable device 107 worn around a torso and configured to sense
heart rate or electrocardiographic activity. For example, the one
or more activity sensors 108' can include a flexible low profile
sensor that is embedded in a material of the wearable device 107
and in direct or indirect contact with the torso, and is configured
to sense heart rate or electrocariographic activity. Examples of
low profile, stretchable and flexible heart rate and
electrocardiography sensors are described in U.S. Patent
Application Publication Nos. 20060058694 and 20130041235,
previously incorporated by reference. In an embodiment, the one or
more heart rate sensors can include a pulse sensor for measuring a
peripheral pulse, such as in a limb, as described above.
[0075] Responsive to sensing an increase in the heart rate of the
subject 106 indicative of increased overall muscle activity, the
control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict around at least one muscle or at least one
joint of the at least one body part 104. As another example,
responsive to sensing a decrease in the heart rate of the subject
106 indicative of decreased muscle activity, the control electrical
circuitry 114 can direct the one or more actuators 110 to cause the
flexible compression garment 102 to dilate around at least one
muscle or at least one joint of the at least one body part 104.
[0076] By way of another example and having applicability to any of
the activity sensors 108 or optional additional types of activity
sensors 108' disclosed herein, in an embodiment, actuating the one
or more actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102
to selectively constrict or selectively dilate is responsive to the
at least one characteristic sensed by one or more activity sensors
being indicative of the subject 106, or a body part of the subject
106, being injured or being strained past a strain limit. In
another embodiment having applicability to any of the activity
sensors 108 disclosed herein, actuating the one or more actuators
110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively
constrict or selectively dilate (e.g., apply or relieve compression
against the at least one body part 104) is responsive to the at
least one characteristic sensed by one or more activity sensors 108
being indicative of the at least one muscle being exerted. In
another embodiment having applicability to any of the one or more
activity sensors 108 disclosed herein, actuating the one or more
actuators 110 to cause the flexible compression garment 102 to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate can be responsive to
the at least one characteristic sensed by the one or more activity
sensors 108 being indicative of at least one muscle not being
exerted beyond a threshold. For example, the one or more activity
sensors 108 can indicate that at least one muscle is not being
exerted at or near a physiological or functional limit thereof, and
the flexible compression garment 102 adjusts the amount of
constriction applied around the at least one muscle to cause the
muscle to work harder, such as during strength training.
[0077] In an embodiment, one or more of any of the different types
of activity sensors 108, 108' described herein can be used in the
same garment system 100, such as being disposed in the same
wearable device 107, or multiple wearable devices 107 used
simultaneously on the same or different body parts of the subject
106. For example, at least one pressure sensor and at least one
accelerometer can be disposed in each of the wearable devices 107
such as footwear worn on both feet of a subject 106. During an
activity, such as running, sensing data from the pressure sensors
and the accelerometers in each item of footwear can be compared by
the control electrical circuitry 114 to determine forces involved
in the activity, a level of activity, a type of activity, an
indication of a limp or other injury to the subject 106, duration
of the activity, or any other detectable characteristics. A reduced
pressure applied to one foot or change in accelerometer data for
one limb of the subject 106 can indicate that the subject 106 is
favoring a specific leg and therefore likely injured. Responsive to
detection of a limp in one the limbs of the subject 106, the
control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to selectively constrict around the limb based on
sensing data indicative of a limp in order to provide extra
support.
[0078] As another example, responsive to detecting a specific type
of activity, such as running, the control electrical circuitry 114
can direct the one or more actuators 110 to selectively constrict,
or selectively dilate to provide support, freedom of movement,
increased blood flow, or resistance to the at least one body part
104 of the subject 106. In an embodiment, the one or more activity
sensors 108 can include a GPS receiver and an accelerometer. The
sensing data from the accelerometer and the distance traveled, as
sensed by the GPS receiver, can be correlated by the control
electrical circuitry 114 to determine the gait or stride of the
subject 106 during an activity. In an embodiment, the one or more
activity sensors 108 can include a GPS receiver and a time-keeper,
such as a watch. The distance traveled by the subject over a
specific time period, as measured by the timer, can be used to
determine a pace of the subject 106 during the selected activity.
The control electrical circuitry 114 can direct the one or more
actuators 110 to selectively constrict or selectively dilate
responsive to the detected gait or pace of the subject 106.
Additionally, the control electrical circuitry 114 can use the
sensed gait or pace to determine if the subject 106 is
participating in the selected activity or level of exertion in the
selected activity.
[0079] A combination of the any of the different types of the one
or more activity sensors 108, 108' disclosed herein can be used to
determine participation by the subject 106 in a selected activity,
the level of exertion of the subject in an activity, injury to the
subject, or any at least one characteristic associated with
movement of the subject or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject as described herein. Such a
determination can be carried out by the control system 112, such as
by the control electrical circuitry 114 therein.
[0080] In an embodiment, the one or more actuators 110 can
selectively constrict or selectively dilate during movement of the
subject 106, such as while the subject 106 is participating in the
selected activity. In an embodiment, the one or more actuators 110
can selectively constrict or selectively dilate only during
inactivity of the subject 106. In an embodiment, the one or more
actuators 110 can selectively constrict or selectively dilate
without regard to movement or inactivity of the subject 106.
[0081] The one or more actuators 110 can be selected from a number
of suitable different types of actuators. Additionally, as will be
discussed in more detail below, the one or more actuators 110 can
be positioned in a number of different configurations. For example,
in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the one or more
actuators 110 can include at least one of one or more electroactive
polymer actuators, one or more electroactive metallic actuators,
one or more thermally active polymer actuators, one or more motors,
or one or more hydraulic actuators.
[0082] In an embodiment, the one or more electroactive polymer
actuators include one or more actuator elements at least partially
formed from ferroelectric polymers, dielectric elastomers, or
electrostrictive graft elastomers. Responsive to a voltage or
current applied by the power supply 118 based on instructions from
the control electrical circuitry 114, the electroactive polymer
actuators can increase or decrease in length, diameter, or other
dimension depending on the polarity of the applied voltage to cause
the flexible compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or
dilate. For example, suitable electroactive polymers for the
electroactive polymer actuators include at least one of NuSil
CF19-2186 commercially available from NuSil Technology of
Carpinteria, Calif., silicone elastomers, acrylic elastomers (e.g.,
VHB 4910 acrylic elastomer commercially available from 3M
Corporation of St. Paul, Minn.), polyurethanes, thermoplastic
elastomers, copolymers comprising polyvinylidene difluoride
("PVDF"), pressure-sensitive adhesives, fluoroelastomers, polymers
comprising silicone and acrylic moieties, or other suitable
electroactive polymers.
[0083] In an embodiment, the one or more electroactive metallic
actuators include one or more actuator elements at least partially
formed from a shape memory material. For example, the shape memory
material can include a nickel-titanium shape memory alloy, such as
nitinol or other suitable nickel-titanium alloy composition.
Responsive to the power supply 118 passing a current through the
shape memory material to heat the shape memory material based on
instructions from the control electrical circuitry 114, the
electroactive metallic actuators can increase or decrease in
length, diameter, or other dimension depending on the temperature
to which the shape memory material is heated to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or dilate.
[0084] Examples of such nickel-titanium shape memory alloys are
currently commercially available from Dynalloy, Inc. and sold under
the trade name Flexinol.RTM.. Flexinol HT.RTM. has a transition
temperature of about 194.degree. F., with an activation start
temperature at about 190.degree. F. and an activation finish
temperature at about 208.degree. F. Such nickel-titanium alloys can
gradually and controllably contract in length about 2% to about 5%
of their length or other dimension as they are heated from the
activation start temperature to the activation finish
temperature.
[0085] In an embodiment, the one or more thermally active polymer
actuators can include one or more actuator elements at least
partially formed from temperature-responsive polymers, such as
polyester, polyurethane, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, or
combinations thereof. Responsive to heat or change in temperature
applied by the power supply 118 based on instructions from the
control electrical circuitry 114, the thermally active polymer
actuators can increase or decrease in length, diameter, or other
dimension depending on the temperature change to cause the flexible
compression garment 102 to selectively constrict or dilate. For
example, suitable temperature responsive polymers for the thermally
active polymer actuators include at least one of a polyester, a
polyurethane, a polypropylene, a polyethylene (e.g.,
polytetrafluoroethylene), nylon, or other suitable temperature
responsive polymers.
[0086] In an embodiment, the one or more motors include one or more
micro-electro-mechanical actuators. For example, the one or more
micro-electro-mechanical motors can include one or more
micro-piezoelectric actuators, one or more micro-electrostatic
actuators, or one or more micro-electromagnetic actuators. Examples
of suitable micro-electro-mechanical motors that can be used to
practice one or more embodiments disclosed herein are disclosed in
Acoust. Sci. & Tech. 31, 2 (2010), the disclosure of which is
incorporated herein, in its entirety, by this reference. As another
example, one suitable micro-piezoelectric actuator is New Scale's
SQUIGGLE.TM. motor.
[0087] In an embodiment, the one or more actuators 110 include a
gear system configured to constrict or dilate (e.g., tighten or
loosen) the at least one flexible compression garment on the at
least one body part of the subject. For example, the gear system
can include a reel having gears therein and lacing connected
therethrough. The gear system can be similar or identical to the
Boa Closure System sold by Boa Technology, Inc. of Denver, Colo. or
similar system. The gear system can be operably coupled to a motor
configured to cause the gear system to tighten or loosen the lacing
connected to the reel. The lacing of the gear system can extend
circumferentially or longitudinally through the flexible
compression garment 102. Responsive to receiving an actuation
signal 116 from the control electrical circuitry 114, the motor of
the gear system tightens or loosens the lacing therein, thereby
constricting or dilating the flexible compression garment 102
circumferentially or longitudinally without manual
manipulation.
[0088] In an embodiment, the one or more actuators 110 can include
a compressed gas system configured selectively constrict or
selectively dilate the flexible compression garment 102. The
compressed gas system is configured to provide inflow of compressed
gas into or outflow of the compressed gas from at least a portion
of the at least one flexible compression garment 102. For example,
the flexible compression garment 102 can include one or more
discrete, air-tight, chambers extending circumferentially or
longitudinally therethrough. Each of the discrete chambers being
fluidly connected to a source of compressed gas, such as a
compressed gas cylinder having a regulator connected thereto. In an
embodiment, responsive to receiving the actuation signal from the
control electrical circuitry, the compressed gas system can cause
the regulator to allow inflow of gas from the cylinder into one or
more of the discrete, air-tight chambers thereby constricting the
flexible compression garment 102. In an embodiment, responsive to
receiving the actuation signal from the control electrical
circuitry, the compressed gas system can cause the regulator or
valve connected to one or more of the discrete, air-tight chambers
to open thereby dilating the flexible compression garment 102.
[0089] In an embodiment, at least one of the one or more activity
sensors; one or more actuators; control electrical circuitry
including any of the power source, control electrical circuitry,
memory (not shown in FIG. 1A), or user interface (not shown in FIG.
1A) can include a waterproof construction or configuration within
the at least one flexible compression garment or at least one
wearable device. For example, sweat produced during exercise can
decrease or terminate proper functioning of electrical components
such as the control electrical circuitry, one or more activity
sensors, or one or more actuators. In an embodiment, the control
electrical circuitry or one or more actuators can be positioned in
a waterproof or watertight material, such as a plastic, to ensure
water (e.g., sweat) does not interfere with the proper functioning
of the garment system. The waterproof construction can include
discrete waterproof portions (e.g., pockets or compartments) in the
at least one flexible compression garment or the at least one
wearable device. Such waterproof portions can be reusable or
resealable.
[0090] FIG. 1B is an illustration of a garment system 100',
according to an embodiment. The garment system 100' is
substantially similar or identical to the garment system 100
depicted in FIG. 1A and described above, including all of the
similarly numbered components therein. The garment system 100'
includes the at least one flexible compression garment 102 worn on
the at least one body part 104, substantially as described herein.
The garment system 100' includes a wearable device 107' worn on at
least an additional body part 105', such as the wrist of the
subject 106 as shown. The wearable device 107' can include one or
more of a watch, a wristband, a wrap, a bracelet, or a strap worn
around the wrist. For example and as shown in FIG. 1B, the at least
one body part 104 is a leg of the subject 106, and the least an
additional body part 105' can be the wrist of the subject 106.
[0091] In an embodiment, the at least one body part 104 or at least
an additional body part 105' can include one or more of at least a
portion of an upper leg (e.g., thigh), at least a portion of a
knee, at least a portion of a lower leg, at least a portion of an
ankle, at least a portion of a foot, at least a portion of an upper
arm, at least a portion of an elbow, at least a portion of a
forearm, at least a portion of a wrist, at least a portion of a
hand, at least a portion of a torso, at least a portion of a neck,
at least a portion of a head, at least a portion of an abdomen, at
least a portion of a back, at least a portion of a hip, at least a
portion of a gluteus maximus, at least a portion of a waist, or at
least a portion of a chest. In an embodiment, the at least one
compression garment 102 can include at least one of a limb sleeve,
an armband, a leg band, a joint sleeve, a brace (e.g., knee, wrist,
ankle, or elbow brace), a shirt, a vest, an undershirt, a jacket, a
girdle, an abdominal support, a back support, shorts, pants,
leggings, a hat, a headband, an item of footwear (e.g., at least
one sock), or at least one glove. In an embodiment, the wearable
device 107' is configured to be removably worn on one or more
additional body parts 105'. In an embodiment, the wearable device
107' can include at least one of a limb sleeve, an armband, a leg
band, a joint sleeve, an anklet, a brace (e.g., knee, wrist, ankle,
or elbow brace), a garment, an item of clothing, a shirt, a vest,
an undershirt, a jacket, a hat, a headband, a backpack, a ring, an
item of footwear, a necklace, a glove, or a belt.
[0092] The term "wearable device" as used herein is not limited to
devices that can be worn round a body part of the subject 106, but
rather is intended to mean a device associated with the subject 106
so as to substantially remain on or associated with the subject 106
during movement thereof. In an embodiment, the wearable device 107'
can be attached to the at least an additional body part 105' by an
attachment device. For example, the wearable device 107' can be
configured as a patch, bandage, epidermal electronics, or the like,
having an attachment device configured to connect to the subject
106. The attachment device can include one or more of an adhesive,
hook and loop material, clips, or other suitable means. The
wearable device 107' can be configured to be associated with a user
by inserting the wearable device 107' between one or more layers of
clothing or a layer of clothing and the skin (e.g., inserted inside
of a sock, shoe, or shirt).
[0093] In an embodiment, the wearable device 107' can be removably
or reusably worn on any of multiple body parts of the subject 106.
For example, the wearable device 107' can be configured as a wrist
band having an adjustable strap thereon, wherein the adjustable
strap can be adjusted out to allow the wrist band to fit around a
portion of the leg of the subject, or around the head of the
subject 106.
[0094] FIGS. 2A and 2B are side cutaway views of an embodiment of
the flexible compression garment 102 of the garment system shown in
FIGS. 1A and 1B, which is worn on the at least one body part 104 of
the subject 106, according to an embodiment. FIG. 2A, depicts the
wearable device 107 in the form of footwear, specifically a shoe on
the at least an additional body part 105 of the subject 106,
specifically the foot. In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIG.
2A, the at least one body part 104 is the leg of the subject, which
includes a thigh 104a, a lower leg 104c, and a knee joint 104b
connecting the thigh 104a and the lower leg 104c together. The
flexible compression garment 102 defines an exterior 120, an
interior surface 124, and the one or more actuators 110 are
configured as a single coiled actuator extending about a portion of
the exterior 120 of the flexible compression garment 102. For
example, the single coiled actuator can extend circumferentially
about and along the exterior 120 of the flexible compression
garment 102 in a substantially helical path and is positioned and
configured to increase or decrease an interior space 122 (FIG. 2B)
defined by an interior surface 124 (FIG. 2B) of the flexible
compression garment 102 responsive to actuation thereof. However,
in other embodiments, the one or more actuators 110, such as the
single coiled actuator, can be embedded internally within the
flexible compression garment 102. In an embodiment, the flexible
compression garment can include a plurality of actuators 110 that
each extend circumferentially about the at least on flexible
compression garment, and function substantially similar or
identical to any actuator described herein.
[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the wearable device 107 can be
footwear (e.g., shoe) which includes one or more sensors 108, 108',
or 108'' positioned on or at least partially embedded within a
surface of the wearable device 107. As shown, the shoe carries
activity sensors 108, 108', and 108'' which can be any of the
activity sensors described herein. For example, the footwear can
include one or more activity sensors 108 and 108'' in the foot bed
of the footwear or one or more activity sensors 108' can be
positioned on the interior or exterior surface (e.g., lateral
surface) of the footwear. In an embodiment, the wearable device 107
can include the control system 112 positioned on or at least
partially embedded within the surface of the wearable device 107.
The control system 112 can be configured substantially identically
or similarly to any control system 112 described herein. In an
embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108' can include a
pedometer, wherein the control system 112 is configured to activate
the actuators 110 of the flexible compression garment 102 upon
occurrence of a specific number of steps.
[0096] Referring to FIG. 2B, optionally, in some embodiments, one
or more activity sensors 108, or 108'' can also be positioned on or
at least partially embedded within the interior surface 124 of the
flexible compression garment 102. The one or more activity sensors
108 or 108'' can be configured substantially similar or identical
any activity sensor described herein. For example, when at least
some of the activity sensors 108 are configured as acoustic sensors
for sensing acoustic emission from the knee joint 104c, such
activity sensors 108 can be positioned on or in the interior
surface 124 of the flexible compression garment 102 so that they
are located at or near the knee joint 104b (or other joint, such as
one that can be affected by arthritis) and labeled as activity
sensors 108'' in FIG. 2B as merely an example.
[0097] As previously described, the garment systems disclosed
herein can be used on a number of different body parts besides a
leg. For example, the at least one body part 104 can include a
portion of an upper arm, a portion of an elbow, a portion of a
forearm, a portion of a hand, a portion of a foot, a portion of a
torso, or a portion of a neck. FIG. 2C is an isometric cutaway view
of an embodiment of the flexible compression garment 102 worn on an
arm 126 of the subject 106. The flexible compression garment 102
can be configured to extend around an upper arm 126a, a forearm
126b, and an elbow 126c that connects the upper arm 126a and
forearm 126b together. In an embodiment, one or more wearable
devices 107 can be worn on the same body part as the at least one
flexible compression garment 102, a different or separate body part
than the at least one flexible compression garment 102, or both.
For example, the wearable device 107 can be worn on the foot and
the flexible compression garment 102 can be worn on the arm 126. In
an embodiment, the flexible compression garment 102 is worn on the
leg 104 and the wearable device 107 is worn on a wrist or ankle. As
another example, FIG. 2D is a side cutaway view of an embodiment of
the flexible compression garment 102 configured to be worn on a
lower leg 104b and at least a portion of an ankle of the subject
106. Of course, in other embodiments, the flexible compression
garment 102 can be configured for other body parts, such as the
upper arm and shoulder, or neck of the subject 106. In other
embodiments, the flexible compression garment 102 can be configured
for other body parts that do not include a joint, such as a portion
of a limb including, but not limited to all or part of, a thigh, a
calf, a forearm, or an upper arm of the subject 106.
[0098] As previously discussed, the wearable device 107 can be
configured to be worn on any body part of the subject 106, such as,
the at least one body part 104 or additional body 105 part of the
subject 106 different than the at least one body part 104. FIGS.
2E-2I depict some non-limiting embodiments of wearable devices
configured to be worn on various body parts of the subject 106.
[0099] FIG. 2E is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of
the wearable device 107 configured as footwear. Footwear suitable
for use as the wearable device 107 includes, by way of non-limiting
example, at least one of a shoe, a shoe insert, a boot, an item of
footwear associated with a snow ski (e.g., a ski binding or ski
boot), footwear associated with a water ski, a sandal, a slipper, a
foot brace, a cast, a sock, or the like. The footwear can include
one or more activity sensors 108, 108', or 108'' therein or
thereon. For example, as shown, the one or more activity sensors
108, 108', or 108'' can be at least partially embedded within or
positioned on the interior of the footwear. The footwear can also
carry or support the control system 112, including one or more
components thereof (e.g., power supply, control electrical
circuitry, or memory). For example, the control system 112 can be
at least partially embedded within or positioned on a surface of
the footwear, such as the interior surface.
[0100] FIGS. 2F and 2G are top views of the wearable devices 107f
and 107g according to various embodiments. In FIG. 2F, the wearable
device 107f is configured as a wristband. The additional body part
105' is the wrist of the subject. In FIG. 2G, the wearable device
107g is configured as a watch. The wearable devices 107f and 107g
can include one or more activity sensors 108 or 108' (or 108'', not
shown). The wearable devices 107f and 107g can include a clasp,
buckle, hook and loop connection, magnetic connection, can be tied
to the wrist, or include any other watch or bracelet type
connection. The wearable devices 107f and 107g can include one or
more of metal, latex, rubber, polymers, cloth, or any other
suitable material suitable for making a band. The one or more
activity sensors 108 or 108' (or 108'', not shown) can be
positioned on an interior or exterior surface of the wearable
devices 107f or 107g, or at least partially embedded in the
wearable devices 107f or 107g. The wearable devices 107f or 107g
can include the control system 112, including one or more
components thereof (e.g., power supply, control electrical
circuitry, or memory) disposed therein or thereon. For example, the
control system 112 can be at least partially embedded within or
positioned on a surface of the wristband or watch, such as in or on
the interior surface thereof.
[0101] FIG. 2H is a top view of the wearable device 107h according
to an embodiment. The wearable device 107h is configured as a ring
and the additional body part 105'' is a finger of the subject. The
wearable device 107h can include one or more of metal, latex,
rubber, polymers, cloth, or any other suitable material suitable
for making a ring. The one or more activity sensors 108 or 108' (or
108'', not shown) can be positioned on an interior or exterior
surface of the wearable device 107h, or at least partially embedded
in the wearable devices 107h. The wearable device 107h can include
the control system 112, including one or more components thereof
(e.g., power supply, control electrical circuitry, or memory)
disposed therein or thereon. For example, the control system 112
can be at least partially embedded within or positioned on a
surface of the ring, such as in or on the interior surface thereof.
In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 or 108' can
be operably connected to the control system 112 carried or
supported by another wearable device disposed on yet another body
part of the subject.
[0102] FIG. 2I is a front elevation view of the wearable device
107i according to an embodiment. The wearable device 107i is
configured as a headband and the additional body part 105' is the
head of the subject. The wearable device 107i can include one or
more of metal, latex, rubber, polymers, cloth, or any other
suitable material suitable for making a headband. The one or more
activity sensors 108 or 108' (or 108'', not shown) can be
positioned on an interior or exterior surface of the wearable
device 107h, or at least partially embedded in the wearable devices
107h. The wearable device 107h can include the control system 112,
including one or more components thereof (e.g., power supply,
control electrical circuitry, or memory) disposed therein or
thereon. For example, the control system 112 can be at least
partially embedded within or positioned on a surface of the
headband, such as in or on the interior surface thereof. In an
embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 108 or 108' can be
operably connected to the control system 112 carried or supported
by another wearable device disposed on yet another body part of the
subject.
[0103] FIGS. 3A and 3B are isometric cutaway and cross-sectional
views of the flexible compression garment 102 shown in FIGS. 1A and
1B according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the
flexible compression garment 102 includes an inner garment body
302, an outer garment body 304, and a substantially tubular
actuator 306 disposed between the inner garment body 302 and the
outer garment body 304 in a concentric arrangement. For example,
the substantially tubular actuator 306 is illustrated as being
embedded within the flexible compression garment 102 and held
between the inner garment body 302 and the outer garment body 304.
As merely an example, the substantially tubular actuator 306 can be
made from a tube of electroactive polymer or a tube of shape memory
alloy that is responsive to an appropriate actuation stimulus from
the power supply 118 of the control system 112 so that a volume of
an inner space 310 defined by the inner garment body 302 can
increase or decrease responsive to actuation of the substantially
tubular actuator 306.
[0104] In an embodiment, the one or more activity sensors can be
disposed on an interior surface 308 of the inner garment body 302
that defines the interior space 310. In embodiments, one or more
activity sensors can be at least partially embedded within the
inner garment body 302.
[0105] During use in some operational situations, responsive to the
one or more activity sensors 108 of an associated wearable device
107, sensing the at least one characteristic (e.g., at least one
characteristic associated with movement of the subject or at least
one physiological characteristic of the subject), the control
electrical circuitry 114 of the control system 112 directs the
substantially tubular actuator 306 to selectively constrict, such
as against the at least one body part 104 to provide more support
thereto or to improve muscle or joint functioning. During use in
other operational situations, responsive to the one or more
activity sensors 108 of an associated wearable device 107, sensing
the at least one characteristic, the control electrical circuitry
114 of the control system 112 directs the substantially tubular
actuator 306 to selectively dilate about the at least one body part
104, such as during a portion of an athletic activity in which the
at least one body part of the subject is minimally exerted or
stressed. During use in other operational situations, responsive to
the one or more activity sensors 108 sensing the at least one
characteristic, the control electrical circuitry 114 of the control
system 112 directs the substantially tubular actuator 306 to
selectively constrict or to selectively dilate, such as to aid a
particular activity or action of the at least one body part 104.
For example, the particular activity or action can be an athletic
motion or action undertaken by at least one particular limb, such
as an arm swinging a bat or club.
[0106] FIGS. 3C and 3D are cross-sectional views of the flexible
compression garment 102 shown in FIG. 3A prior to actuation (e.g.,
activation or direction) of the actuator 306 or at a low actuation
level, and after actuation of the actuator 306 or at a relatively
higher actuation level than in FIG. 3C, respectively. As shown in
FIG. 3C, prior actuation of the actuator 306 or at a low actuation
level, the interior space 310 of the flexible compression garment
102 exhibits a relatively larger diameter D1 or other lateral
dimension. As shown in FIG. 3D, after actuation of the actuator 306
or at a relatively higher actuation level than in FIG. 3C, the
actuator 306 selectively constricts such that the interior space
310 of the flexible compression garment 102 exhibits a relatively
smaller diameter D2 or other lateral dimension. This constriction
of the flexible compression garment 102 can be used to apply
selective amounts of compression forces to the at least one body
part of the subject. For example, the actuator 306 can cause
narrowing of substantially the entire flexible compression garment
102 to the smaller diameter D2.
[0107] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a garment
system 400 including a plurality of ring-shaped actuators 402. The
garment system 400 includes a flexible compression garment 404 that
can be made from the same materials as the flexible compression
garment 102. The flexible compression garment 404 defines an
interior space 403 for receiving at least one body part of a
subject, such as an arm, leg, or other body part. The plurality of
ring-shaped actuators 402 are longitudinally spaced from each
other. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of ring-shaped
actuators 402 are disposed circumferentially about an exterior of
the flexible compression garment 404. However, in other
embodiments, the plurality of ring-shaped actuators 402 can be at
least partially embedded within the flexible compression garment
404. As merely an example, each of the plurality of ring-shaped
actuators 402 can be made from a ring electroactive polymer or a
ring of shape memory alloy that is responsive to an appropriate
actuation stimulus from a power supply 416 of a control system
412.
[0108] The garment system 400 further includes one or more activity
sensors 408, which can be configured similar or identical to any of
the activity sensors disclosed herein. In the illustrated
embodiment, the one or more activity sensors 408 are disposed on
the wearable device 407. The wearable device 407 can be
substantially similar or identical to any wearable device disclosed
herein. In some embodiments, the one or more activity sensors 408
can be embedded within the wearable device 407.
[0109] The control system 412 is configured and functions
substantially similarly or identically to the control system 112 in
FIG. 1. For example, the control system 412 is operably coupled to
the one or more activity sensors 408 on the wearable device 407 and
the plurality of ring-shaped actuators 402 on the flexible
compression garment 404. Thus, during use in some operational
situations, responsive to the one or more activity sensors 408
sensing the at least one characteristic associated with movement of
the subject or at least one physiological characteristic of the
subject, the control electrical circuitry 414 of the control system
412 directs the plurality of ring-shaped actuators 402 to
selectively constrict (e.g., compress against the at least one body
part to provide more support thereto or to improve muscle or joint
functioning). Thus, the actuation of each of the plurality of
ring-shaped actuators 402 decreases a diameter thereof. During use
in other operational situations, responsive to the one or more
activity sensors 408 sensing the at least one characteristic
associated with movement of the subject or at least one
physiological characteristic of the subject, the control electrical
circuitry 414 of the control system 412 directs the plurality of
ring-shaped actuators 402 to selectively dilate (e.g., relieve
compression against the at least one body part), such as during a
portion of an athletic activity in which the at least one body part
of the subject is exerted or stressed. Thus, the actuation of each
of the plurality of ring-shaped actuators 402 increases a diameter
thereof.
[0110] In some embodiments, the garment systems disclosed herein
can include memory and a user interface that enables the subject or
another person to program the manner in which an individual garment
system operates. For example, FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram
of an embodiment of a garment system 500. The garment system 500
includes a compression garment 502 including one or more actuators
506, as described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The
garments system 500 includes a wearable device 520 including one or
more activity sensors 522 as described in any of the embodiments
herein. The garment system 500 further includes a control system
508 operably coupled to the one or more activity sensors 522 and
the one or more actuators 506. The control system 508 includes
control electrical circuitry 510 that controls the operation of the
one or more activity sensors 522 or the one or more actuators 506;
memory 512 operably coupled to the control electrical circuitry 510
that can be programmed with instructions via a user interface 514;
and a power supply 516 that powers some or all of the components of
the garment system 500. The control system 508, control electrical
circuitry, 510, memory 512 or user interface 514 can be accessed or
controlled locally (e.g., directly by the subject or a person
within reach of the subject) or remotely (e.g., by a coach,
trainer, doctor, medical professional, or other person located
outside of arms reach of the subject). For example, a coach or
trainer can control the operational program of the garment system
500 from across a field or gymnasium with remote input. The user
interface 514 can be remote from the garment system 500, such as in
a personal electronic device (e.g., remote control, cell phone, lap
top computer, etc.) held by a coach, trainer or medical
professional while a subject is training. For example, a trainer
can increase the support on a body part or difficulty of a workout
of the subject by increasing the constriction around a specific
joint. A trainer or coach can enter (e.g., input or program) an
operational program into the control system or cause a specific
operational program to run (e.g., cause actuation of the one or
more actuators according to the operational program).
Alternatively, a trainer can decrease the difficulty of a workout
by causing the one or more actuators to dilate. Such decisions can
be determined based at least in part on sensor feedback visible on
the user interface.
[0111] The memory 512 can be configured to store one or more of
sensing data, sensing data corresponding to the one or more sensing
signals, actuation data corresponding to the selective constriction
or selective dilation of the at least one flexible compression
garment, operational programs, threshold levels, one or more
selected activities, or other data related to the operation of the
garment system 500. The memory 512 can be programmed via the user
interface 514 with operational programs for the operation of the
garment system 500, threshold levels, actuation data corresponding
to selective contraction or selective dilation, sensing data, one
or more selected activities, or other data. For example, the user
interface 514 can include a keypad, monitor, touch screen, voice
command recognition, desktop computer, laptop computer, cell phone,
or combinations thereof operably coupled to the control electrical
circuitry 510 of the control system 508. The user interface 514 can
be operably coupled to the control electrical circuitry 510 via a
wireless or wired communication connection. The subject that wears
the garment system 500 or another party (e.g., a medical
professional) can program instructions into the memory 512 for the
operation of the one or more activity sensors 522 and the one or
more actuators 506 via the user interface 514 either locally or
remotely. Any methods of operation for any of the garment systems
disclosed herein can be programmed into the memory 512, as needed
or desired. In an embodiment, the memory 512 is configured to store
sensing data corresponding to the one or more sensing signals
output from the one or more activity sensors 522 and actuation data
corresponding to the executed selective constriction or the
selective dilation of the flexible compression garment 502. Such
sensing data and actuation data can be downloaded or uploaded by
the subject or other person (e.g., a medical professional) for
analysis, such as through the user interface 514.
[0112] During operation, the control circuitry 510 accesses and
receives instructions (e.g., operational programs) from the memory
512 and directs the sensing operations of the one or more activity
sensors 522 and actuation of the one or more actuators 506 at least
partially based on the instructions. For example, responsive to the
instructions stored in the memory 512, the control system 508 can
direct the one or more actuators 522 to cause the compression
garment 502 to selectively constrict at least one portion of the
compression garment 502 responsive to the one or more activity
sensors 522 sensing at least one characteristic associated with
movement of the subject or at least one physiological
characteristic of the subject. As another example, responsive to
the instructions stored in the memory 512, the control system 508
can direct the one or more actuators 522 to cause the compression
garment 502 to selectively dilate at least one portion of the
flexible compression garment 502 responsive to the one or more
activity sensors 522 sensing the at least one characteristic
associated with movement of the subject or at least one
physiological characteristic of the subject.
[0113] In an embodiment, the memory 512 stores sensing data
corresponding to the one or more sensing signals from the one or
more activity sensors 522 and stores actuation data corresponding
to the selective constriction or the selective dilation of the
flexible compression garment 502, which can be downloaded or
uploaded at any of the user interfaces 514 disclosed herein (e.g.,
a cell phone, desktop computer, laptop computer, or other computing
device). For example, at the user interface 514 a person can
download the sensing data and the actuation data such as frequency
and duration of constriction or dilation of the flexible
compression garment 502, or the sensing signals received from the
one or more activity sensors 522.
[0114] The garment systems disclosed herein can also be used in
conjunction with a motion sensing system for monitoring, teaching,
or correcting a subject's movement during different activities,
such as walking, running, jumping, or specific sporting activities.
For example, the one or more activity sensors 522 associated with
the wearable device 520 can be configured to sense at least one
characteristic associated with movement of the subject or at least
one physiological characteristic of the subject, or track physical
movement of the subject, such as motion of one or more limbs of the
subject. For example, such physical movement can be sporting
activities, such as a baseball bat swing, golf swing, tennis
racquet swing, or other type of activity, or general movement such
as walking or arm motion for physical therapy. In an embodiment,
the one or more actuators 506 are configured to selectively
constrict or dilate upon receiving one or more actuation signals,
responsive to sensing the at least one characteristic related to
physical movement of the subject. In an embodiment, the user
interface 514 is configured to allow a person to input sensing data
into the memory 512 of the control system 508 and associate (e.g.,
directly designate or label the data set) the sensing data with one
or more of the selected activities stored in the memory 512. In an
embodiment, the control electrical circuitry 510 is configured to
automatically associate or correlate the sensing data with one or
more of the selected activities stored in the memory 512 based on
recognized or template patterns of the sensing data stored in the
memory 512 known to correspond to a particular one of the specific
activities, by comparison therebetween. For example, the control
electrical circuitry 510 can associate the pedometer data from a
specific pattern of running with the specific activity of
basketball based on comparison of stored baseline sensing data
previously known to correlate with basketball.
[0115] In operation, responsive to receiving one or more sensing
signals from the one or more activity sensors 522, the control
electrical circuitry 510 of the control system 508 directs the one
or more actuators 506 to actuate, thereby causing the flexible
compression garment 502 to selectively constrict or selectively
dilate. The selective constriction or dilation is provided to
direct, support, or aid the subject's movement to correspond to a
stored movement, activity, or movement pattern in the memory 512 of
the control system 508. For example, the stored movement or
movement pattern can be a model golf swing or other athletic
movement as input via the user interface 514 by a golf professional
or other athletic professional. The selective constriction or
dilation (e.g., around the subject's arm) is provided to direct,
support, or aid the subject's movement during the activity stored
in the memory 512. Thus, the garment system 500 can serve to assist
training the subject in specific movements for sporting activities,
or general movement such as walking for physical therapy. In
another embodiment, responsive to receiving the output from the one
or more activity sensors 522 via one or more sensing signals, the
memory 512 can be programmed with or select at least one
operational program according to which the actuating the one or
more actuators 506 occurs.
[0116] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method 600 of
selectively constricting or selectively dilating a flexible
compression garment (e.g., compressing or relieving compression of
at least one body part of a subject) responsive to sensing feedback
from one or more activity sensors. Instructions for any of the
methods disclosed herein can be stored in memory of a garment
system such as the memory 512 of the garment system 500.
[0117] The method 600 includes an act 602 of wearing at least one
flexible compression garment of a garment system on at least one
body part of a subject. The at least one flexible garment includes
one or more actuators configured selectively constrict or
selectively dilate. For example, the at least one body part on
which the at least flexible compression garment is worn includes at
least a portion of an arm, at least a portion of a forearm, at
least a portion of a wrist, at least a portion of a thigh, at least
a portion of a lower leg, a least a portion of a knee, at least a
portion of an ankle, at least a portion of a foot, at least a
portion of a neck, or at least a portion of a chest.
[0118] The method 600 includes an act 604 of wearing a wearable
device in the form of footwear on at least one foot of the subject.
The footwear includes one or more activity sensors configured to
sense at least one characteristic associated with movement of the
subject or at least one physiological characteristic of the subject
during one or more of movement or inactivity. The footwear can
include any of the activity sensors described herein, such as those
used in the garment system 100 shown in FIG. 1A. In an embodiment,
wearing the wearable device in the form of footwear on at least one
foot includes wearing the footwear on the same or at least a
different body part than the at least one flexible compression
garment is worn on. By way of non-limiting example, the footwear is
worn the foot of the opposite leg that the flexible compression
garment is worn on, or on the foot while the at least one flexible
compression garment is worn on an arm.
[0119] The method 600 further includes an act 606 of, with the one
or more activity sensors, sensing the at least one characteristic.
In an embodiment, sensing the at least on characteristic includes
sensing the at least one characteristic over a period of time. In
an embodiment, the method further includes sensing signals from the
activity sensors to the control system, such as to the control
electrical circuitry.
[0120] As previously discussed, the at least one characteristic can
include at least one of the a physical characteristic, a chemical
characteristic (e.g., biochemical or biological), a physiological
characteristic of the subject, change in motion of travel of a
subject, change in direction of travel of a subject, load on a body
part of a subject (e.g., load applied to the one or more activity
sensors 108 by or through a body part of the subject 106), pressure
on a body part of the subject (e.g., pressure applied to the one or
more activity sensors 108 by or through a body part of the subject
106), tension on a body part of a subject (e.g., tension applied to
the one or more activity sensors 108 by or through a body part of
the subject 106), velocity of a body part of a subject, velocity of
the subject, acceleration of a body part of the subject,
temperature of a body part of the subject, pulse in a body part of
the subject, location of the subject, elevation of the subject,
duration of the motion or activity of the subject, gait of the
subject, pace at which the subject moves, nerve activity of a
subject, chemical excretion of a subject, temperature of the
subject, temperature of the ambient environment of the subject,
oxygenation of the subject, acoustic emission subject or
variations, patterns of any of the foregoing, or any other
characteristic described herein. Furthermore, in one or more
embodiments, the one more activity sensors can sense only the
muscle activity (e.g., one or more muscle activity sensors) or
sense only joint activity (e.g., one or more joint activity
sensors).
[0121] The method 600 also includes an act 608 of, responsive to
sensing the at least one characteristic via the one or more
activity sensors, actuating the one or more actuators to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate. Actuating the one or
more actuators can be carried out via sending an actuation signal
from the control system to the one or more actuators or the power
supply, such as from the control electrical circuitry. In an
embodiment, actuating the one or more actuators can be carried out
during movement of the subject (e.g., during continued
participation in an activity that the subject is participating in
while the sensors detect the data) or during inactivity of the
subject, such as only during movement or only during inactivity of
the subject. For example, in an embodiment, actuating the one or
more actuators (e.g., activating, causing, or directing) to
selectively constrict or dilate is responsive to the at least one
characteristic sensed by one or more activity sensors being over or
below a threshold level. The at least one characteristic and
associated threshold level can be any described herein, such as
indicative of the at least one subject or muscle being injured,
exerted, or strained past a strain limit. For example, such a
threshold level can be stored in the memory of a garment system
such as the memory 512 of the garment system 500.
[0122] In an embodiment, actuating the one or more actuators
includes applying voltage or current from the power supply to the
one or more actuators to cause actuation thereof. In an embodiment,
actuating the one or more actuators can be carried out
substantially in cycle, concert, or rhythm with the at least one
characteristic sensed by the one or more sensors (e.g., actuating
in rhythm with a pulse in a body part, heartbeat, or gait of the
subject) or changes therein (e.g., increases or decreases in the
sensed at least one characteristic).
[0123] In an embodiment, actuating the one or more actuators occurs
according to an operational program, and can be initiated
responsive to a sensed at least one characteristic. In some
embodiments, the operational program is a pre-programmed
operational program. In an embodiment, the at least one operational
program can be related to (e.g., associated with, selected upon
detection of, or correlated with) at least one selected activity.
In an embodiment, actuating the one or more actuators includes
automatically selecting, via the control system (e.g., computer
control system), the at least one operational program responsive to
one or more of at least one sensed characteristic (e.g., a gait, a
pace, a time, a position, a passage of an amount of time, a
distance traveled, an amount of force exerted, an amount of load on
a body part, an amount of tension on a body part, or a movement),
or the selected activity associated with the sensing data. In an
embodiment, the at least one operational program can be selected
from multiple programs having one or more different actuation
criteria, pulse constriction or dilation rates, constriction or
dilation strengths, or constriction or dilation durations. In an
embodiment, the method 600 can also include an act of programming
(e.g., uploading, selecting, writing, or designating) the at least
one operational program into the control system, such as via the
user interface.
[0124] In an embodiment, the method can further include associating
or correlating, with the control electrical circuitry, sensing data
including one or more of the at least one characteristics with at
least one selected activity stored in the memory. In an embodiment,
the method 600 can include automatically selecting, with the
control system, the at least one operational program. Automatically
selecting, with the control system, the at least one operational
program can be based on or responsive to the at least one selected
activity associated or correlated with the sensing data.
Automatically selecting the operational program can be based on a
comparison, by the control electrical circuitry, of the sensing
data with baseline levels or patterns of the sensed at least one
characteristic known to correlate with the selected activity to
determine a substantial match.
[0125] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method 700 of
selectively constricting or selectively dilating a flexible
compression garment (e.g., compressing or relieving compression of
at least one body part of a subject) responsive to sensing feedback
from one or more activity sensors. Instructions for any of the
methods disclosed herein can be stored in memory of a garment
system such as the memory 512 of the garment system 500.
[0126] The method 700 includes an act 702 of wearing at least one
flexible compression garment of a garment system on at least one
body part of a subject as described herein. The at least one
flexible garment includes one or more actuators configured to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate.
[0127] The method 700 includes an act 704 of wearing a wearable
device on at least an additional body part of the subject as
described herein. For example, wearing the at least one wearable
device on an additional body part includes wearing the at least one
wearable device on the wrist of the subject. The wearable device
can be separate and distinct from the at least one flexible
compression garment. The wearable device includes one or more
activity sensors configured to sense at least one characteristic
associated with movement of the subject or at least one
physiological characteristic of the subject during movement. The
wearable device can include any of the activity sensors described
herein, such as those used in the garment system 100 or 100' shown
in FIGS. 1A and 1B. For example, the wearable device can be
configured as a wrist band worn on the wrist of a subject. In an
embodiment, wearing a wearable device on an additional body part of
the subject includes positioning or replacing at least one of the
one or more sensors with one or more additional (e.g., new or
different) sensors than used previously.
[0128] The method 700 further includes an act 706 of, with the one
or more activity sensors, sensing the at least one characteristic.
The at least one characteristic can include of those described
herein.
[0129] The method 700 also includes an act 708 of, responsive to
sensing the at least one characteristic via the one or more
activity sensors, actuating the one or more actuators to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate. In an embodiment,
actuating the one or more actuators can be carried out during
movement of the subject or during inactivity of the subject. For
example, in an embodiment, actuating the one or more actuators to
selectively constrict or selectively dilate is responsive to the at
least one characteristic sensed by one or more activity sensors
being over or below a threshold level, such as indicative of the at
least one muscle being injured, exerted, or strained past a strain
limit. Such a threshold level can be stored in memory of a garment
system such as the memory 512 of the garment system 500. In an
embodiment, the threshold level of the at least one characteristic
can be programmed into the control system, such as the memory via
the user interface.
[0130] Method 700 can include one or more acts substantially
similar or to identical to any acts described herein, such as those
acts described above with respect to method 600.
[0131] In an embodiment, a method of selectively constricting or
selectively dilating a flexible compression garment responsive to
sensing feedback from one or more activity sensors can include
positioning (e.g., placing or putting) the at least one flexible
compression garment on at least one body part of the subject. In an
embodiment, a method of selectively constricting or selectively
dilating a flexible compression garment responsive to sensing
feedback from one or more activity sensors can include positioning
(e.g., placing or putting) the at least one wearable device on the
additional body part of the subject.
[0132] The reader will recognize that the state of the art has
progressed to the point where there is little distinction left
between hardware and software implementations of aspects of
systems; the use of hardware or software is generally (but not
always, in that in certain contexts the choice between hardware and
software can become significant) a design choice representing cost
vs. efficiency tradeoffs. The reader will appreciate that there are
various vehicles by which processes and/or systems and/or other
technologies described herein can be effected (e.g., hardware,
software, and/or firmware), and that the preferred vehicle will
vary with the context in which the processes and/or systems and/or
other technologies are deployed. For example, if an implementer
determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the implementer
may opt for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle;
alternatively, if flexibility is paramount, the implementer may opt
for a mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively,
the implementer may opt for some combination of hardware, software,
and/or firmware. Hence, there are several possible vehicles by
which the processes and/or devices and/or other technologies
described herein may be effected, none of which is inherently
superior to the other in that any vehicle to be utilized is a
choice dependent upon the context in which the vehicle will be
deployed and the specific concerns (e.g., speed, flexibility, or
predictability) of the implementer, any of which may vary. The
reader will recognize that optical aspects of implementations will
typically employ optically-oriented hardware, software, and or
firmware.
[0133] The foregoing detailed description has set forth various
embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of block
diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar as such block
diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions
and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art
that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams,
flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or
collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or
virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, several
portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented
via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field
Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs),
or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will
recognize that some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, in
whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated
circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more
computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more
computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more
processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more
microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination
thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code
for the software and or firmware would be well within the skill of
one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. In addition,
the reader will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject
matter described herein are capable of being distributed as a
program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative
embodiment of the subject matter described herein applies
regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to
actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearing
medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable
type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact
Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer
memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a digital
and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a
waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication
link, etc.).
[0134] In a general sense, the various embodiments described herein
can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by various
types of electro-mechanical systems having a wide range of
electrical components such as hardware, software, firmware, or
virtually any combination thereof; and a wide range of components
that may impart mechanical force or motion such as rigid bodies,
spring or torsional bodies, hydraulics, and electro-magnetically
actuated devices, or virtually any combination thereof.
Consequently, as used herein "electro-mechanical system" includes,
but is not limited to, electrical circuitry operably coupled with a
transducer (e.g., an actuator, a motor, a piezoelectric crystal,
etc.), electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical
circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated
circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application
specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general
purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a
general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at
least partially carries out processes and/or devices described
herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which
at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described
herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms
of random access memory), electrical circuitry forming a
communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, or
optical-electrical equipment), and any non-electrical analog
thereto, such as optical or other analogs. Those skilled in the art
will also appreciate that examples of electro-mechanical systems
include but are not limited to a variety of consumer electronics
systems, as well as other systems such as motorized transport
systems, factory automation systems, security systems, and
communication/computing systems. Those skilled in the art will
recognize that electro-mechanical as used herein is not necessarily
limited to a system that has both electrical and mechanical
actuation except as context may dictate otherwise.
[0135] In a general sense, the various aspects described herein
which can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a
wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or any combination
thereof can be viewed as being composed of various types of
"electrical circuitry." Consequently, as used herein "electrical
circuitry" includes, but is not limited to, electrical circuitry
having at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical
circuitry having at least one integrated circuit, electrical
circuitry having at least one application specific integrated
circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing
device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose
computer configured by a computer program which at least partially
carries out processes and/or devices described herein, or a
microprocessor configured by a computer program which at least
partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein),
electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of random
access memory), and/or electrical circuitry forming a
communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, or
optical-electrical equipment). The subject matter described herein
may be implemented in an analog or digital fashion or some
combination thereof.
[0136] The herein described components (e.g., steps), devices, and
objects and the discussion accompanying them are used as examples
for the sake of conceptual clarity. Consequently, as used herein,
the specific exemplars set forth and the accompanying discussion
are intended to be representative of their more general classes. In
general, use of any specific exemplar herein is also intended to be
representative of its class, and the non-inclusion of such specific
components (e.g., steps), devices, and objects herein should not be
taken as indicating that limitation is desired.
[0137] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or
singular terms herein, the reader can translate from the plural to
the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is
appropriate to the context and/or application. The various
singular/plural permutations are not expressly set forth herein for
sake of clarity.
[0138] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates
different components contained within, or connected with, different
other components. It is to be understood that such depicted
architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other
architectures can be implemented which achieve the same
functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components
to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such
that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two
components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality
can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired
functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or
intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated
can also be viewed as being "operably connected," or "operably
coupled," to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and
any two components capable of being so associated can also be
viewed as being "operably couplable," to each other to achieve the
desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable
include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or
physically interacting components and/or wirelessly interactable
and/or wirelessly interacting components and/or logically
interacting and/or logically interactable components.
[0139] In some instances, one or more components may be referred to
herein as "configured to." The reader will recognize that
"configured to" can generally encompass active-state components
and/or inactive-state components and/or standby-state components,
unless context requires otherwise.
[0140] While particular aspects of the present subject matter
described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent
to those skilled in the art that, based upon the teachings herein,
changes and modifications may be made without departing from the
subject matter described herein and its broader aspects and,
therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope
all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit
and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, it
is to be understood that the invention is defined by the appended
claims. In general, terms used herein, and especially in the
appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally
intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be
interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having"
should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes"
should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.).
It will be further understood by those within the art that if a
specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such
an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the
absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example,
as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may
contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one
or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such
phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a
claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any
particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to
inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same
claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least
one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or
"an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one
or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles
used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a
specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly
recited, such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at
least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two
recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two
recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those
instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B,
and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in
the sense the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A,
B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A
alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and
C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances
where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc."
is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense
the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C"
would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B
alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C
together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). Virtually any
disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative
terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be
understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the
terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase
"A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or
"B" or "A and B."
[0141] With respect to the appended claims, the recited operations
therein may generally be performed in any order. Examples of such
alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved,
interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental,
simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context
dictates otherwise. With respect to context, even terms like
"responsive to," "related to," or other past-tense adjectives are
generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context
dictates otherwise.
[0142] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed
herein, the various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are
for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting,
with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following
claims.
* * * * *